Dear Editor,

I was very pleased to read Dr Brendan Byrne's article on bullying (E&L, February 6th) and I fully subscribe to its contents. Dr Byrne is a member of the steering committee of the Sticks and Stones theatre company's anti-bullying campaign, which was established to heighten awareness of typical forms of bullying in primary and post-primary schools.

To date over 35,000 children and numerous teachers and parents have viewed the performance, and I expect at least similar numbers to be involved during the current academic year.

From time immemorial, live theatre has proved to be a direct way of conveying a message to an audience. It has proved particularly effective when aimed at young people. who while enjoying the show will, at the same time, absorb the message.

This year's programme has been sponsored by the Department of Education and Nissan Ireland and has been welcomed by the TUI and ASTI.

The company is affiliated to the anti-bullying research and resource unit in the teacher education department of Trinity College Dublin, which is headed by Dr Mona O'Moore, a senior lecturer in child and educational psychology.

Dr O'Moore's unit is available to provide advice, counselling, guidance and resource materials for parents, schools and organisations seeking to counter bullying.

She fully endorses the work of the Sticks and Stones theatre company, which she recommends for presentation at all schools and colleges.

Director/producer, Sticks & Stones, Watkins Square, The Coombe, Dublin 8.