THE principal of Mallow’s Davis College has confirmed that teachers will discuss the discovery of a so-called ‘rape list’ with every class.

The list, an anonymous poll found at the back of a boys toilet at the secondary school, asked users to vote who should be raped from a list of young girls, by leaving a tick alongside names of female school-going minors.

The matter has now been referred to Gardaí at Mallow Garda Station.

“We are taking this issue extremely seriously, and immediately took steps to address it with both the affected students and the student body at large,” he said.

“The list was removed the minute we were notified of its existence and we spoke to each of the young ladies mentioned to answer any questions or concerns they had.

“We encouraged them — as we encourage all of our students — to come to us with any issues that may be of concern so that we can support them in any way possible.”

Mr Gilbert said that teaching staff will discuss the matter with students.

“Our SPHE (Social, Personal & Health Education) teachers will be facilitating discussions on this subject with every class.

“We want students and parents to know that we will continue to provide a safe learning environment for our students. We remain available to all parents and students who may have concerns in relation to this issue.”

A statement issued on behalf of a parent of one of the students directly affected by the incident described her daughter as ‘distraught’ after the matter emerged on RedFM yesterday.

“My daughter and our family do not want her personal life talked about in the media, on radio, print or online. This is something which was upsetting enough for my daughter at the time, and who now is distraught after hearing about it being talked about across the airwaves,” the statement said.

Reports of two further lists of the same nature have not been confirmed, though it is understood that the school is investigating these suggestions.

Head of Cork’s Sexual Violence Centre Mary Crilly said she did not think this was an isolated incident.

The behaviour, which Ms Crilly described as “bullying” was absolutely appalling. She said it was important to see it being discussed.

“I am delighted this is being called out. I am not saying that anything would have happened, but the awful threat of the act of sexual assault was hanging over these girls.”

Ms Crilly said it was an example of entitled behaviour and it needed to be addressed.