Hugh O’Neill denies the allegations made against him
A teacher accused of sexually assaulting a colleague at work and in his home could face being banned from the profession altogether.
In a 12 month period, Hugh O’Neill is alleged to have touched and made remarks about a former colleague’s breasts. A teacher regulation agency (TRA) panel was told how during the same period, Mr O’Neill is alleged to have had sexual contact with a female colleague despite her asking him to stop.
Mr O’Neill, 45, said he did not agree with the claims that had been made against him when he was employed at a special school in Knowsley. A three-person panel is now deliberating whether his actions amount to unacceptable professional conduct and conduct that brings the profession into disrepute.
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The hearing was told how Mr O’Neill is reported to have made a number of comments about the female staff member, including saying she “looked busty” and was a “sexy b***h.” It was also alleged the teacher, 45, felt her breasts on multiple occasions on school grounds and “coerced” her into having sex with him.
Mr O’Neill said the pair had sex consensually and regarding the “very serious allegation” of a non-consensual sexual assault, he said: “I don’t know why she said it, but I didn’t do it.” The teacher added how he had provided 19 character witnesses “from the most senior pillars of society” and the alleged behaviour was not in his nature.
During the first day of the hearing, Colleague A said Mr O’Neill called her and said they should “meet up and have that kiss” before going on to ask about her bra size, saying he had noticed her breasts. The woman said he was “relentless” in calling and described it as “pestering.”
In response, Mr O’Neill said: “It sounds a bit ludicrous to be honest, it’s not how I would conduct myself or behave.” Asked why she didn’t report this behaviour, Colleague A said: “I honestly thought I would lose my job if I said anything. I didn’t think I’d be believed and they’d get rid of me and I’d have no job or money coming in.”
Asked about his feelings towards Colleague A now, Mr O’Neill, who was visibly emotional, said: “I just want us both to get through this. Sometimes I’m bewildered why I’m sat here.
“I maintain I entered into a consensual relationship throughout. I got the help I need through counselling, the National Education Union and friends.
“I hope Colleague A finds peace and can move on with her life.” He added how he refuted the suggestion his actions caused her “so much trauma” and wished her well and “nothing but happiness.”
Mr O’Neill said: “I want to put this behind us and get back to the job I was taken away from.”
Panel members are expected to return a decision later today, which could lead to Mr O’Neill being prevented from teaching permanently if the claims against him are found proven. He has been in the Republic of Ireland joining via video link for the duration of the hearing.
