Government rejects plans for tougher anti-violence teacher protection laws

In a cabinet meeting on Wednesday, the government of PM Petr Nečas rejected a proposal tabled by the opposition Social Democrats to toughen laws protecting school teachers and other educational staff from violence. Under the proposals, five new categories of crime would afford teachers greater protection: murder, severe violent attacks, violent attacks, extortion and dangerously threatening behaviour. Proponents of the legislation argued that teachers are increasingly finding themselves the victims of physical assaults by pupils. However, the government rejected the proposals arguing instead for more preventative measures to be taken by schools and also adding that violence against teachers is already against the law and does not require additional legislation.