THE GRANDFATHER of the Donegal teenager who took her own life after being subjected to cyber-bullying has called for teachers and pupils to be given greater education on abuse of all kinds, how to identify it, and its effects.
Speaking on TV3′s Midweek programme, James Gallagher appeals to parents: “Don’t let my Erin die in vain”.
The 13-year-old was found dead the weekend before last, only days after lashing out against online bullies.
Gallagher said that while the family had received assistance since Erin’s death, the help was coming too late for Erin’s life to be saved.
“It’s not really us that should have been getting the help,” Gallagher said, in an interview which will be broadcast tonight. “It should have been Erin, and she never got that.”
Gallagher said he would like to see greater awareness among both teachers and school-goers as to the effects that abuse of any sort can have – and training for teachers to help spot cyber-bullying when it is taking place.
“I’d like to see teachers getting more education on bullying and any type of abuse, so that they can look out for signs. I’d like to see the young people getting educated on abuse to show what abuse can lead to.
“And not just mental abuse – all types of abuse - because it’ll be a wake-up call.
“We’ve got to try and work it out the best we can. Try to – at least try anyway – to stop what happened to Erin [happening] to anyone else.”
Gallagher described his granddaughter as “a real amazing child” who was caring and considerate, and who had many friends.
“She was just a brilliant child… what a waste. A complete waste.”
James Gallagher’s remarks will be broadcast on TV3′s Midweek tonight at 10pm.
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