A primary school teacher who publicly beat three unruly boys has the backing of the community.

Last week, Northlands Primary School principal Dale Butler made headlines after strapping three young boys in front of a school assembly.

The boys were part of a group of children discovered selling stolen goods. Mr.

Butler reportedly called the hand-strapping "the ultimate punishment'' which had only been used after other disciplinary measures had failed.

But Sheelagh Cooper, head of the Coalition for the Protection of Children, spoke out against Mr. Butler's actions.

She said the strapping represented a double standard because a Sandys Secondary school student was legally prosecuted last year for attacking a teacher.

And it is understood Chief Education Officer Joseph Christopher contacted Mr.

Butler on Wednesday to voice concerns about how the boys were treated.

Yesterday, The Royal Gazette took the issue to the streets of Hamilton where an informal poll of public sentiment was conducted.

"I fully agree with it,'' said Fred Dennis. "I agree with Dale Butler one hundred percent.'' "He could have turned them in to the Police and their parents,'' Mr. Dennis added. "And that would have done much more harm. I don't know why everybody is making all this fuss.'' Gregory Wilson agreed.

"I guess it's good,'' he said. "You pay the penalty for what you do.'' "I believe if a child acts up, it's the only way,'' he continued. "I don't believe in just talking and sitting down. You've got to give a spanking.

That's why the kids are out of line these days.'' Madeilin Reape echoed similar sentiments. "I'm from the old school,'' she said. "I don't believe in caning. But if a child does something wrong, they should be rapped on the wrist. We were smacked and I don't think we were harmed.'' And Garon Wilkinson said corporal punishment should be "just enough to hurt''.

"I think it's good. That's what I had growing up and I turned out positive,'' he said.

"If it's for the right reason and done the right way, it's okay.'' Carolyn Young was less reserved. "It's a good thing,'' she said. "Don't you think the kids these days need some licks?'' However, she suggested that teachers should get the "parents point of view'' before administering the punishment. But while many of those surveyed were in support of the punishment, they opposed doing so in front of an entire school.

"I don't think it should be done in front of everyone,'' said Bob Digiacomo.

"It (corporal punishment) is probably only as a last resort. If the kids get a enough of a positive mental outlook, we won't need it.'' Only one person totally rejected the need for corporal punishment.

"I don't want anybody spanking my child besides me,'' said Alvina Daniels.

"There should be other ways of dealing with the children.'' See Editorial: Page 4 Garon Wilkinson Gregory Wilson Madeilin Reape Bob Digiacomo Carolyn Young