Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire (Cork South Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I have been contacted by many school staff and parents regarding the difference between those at high risk and those at very high risk. Many school staff in particular have been concerned. They have been certified by Medmark as fit to return to work as they are only high risk. They are upset and worried by this and they feel compromised. They are also unhappy at the relative lack of recourse. To be classified very high risk seems to be quite a high bar. On the other hand, the high risk category is quite broad and it seems to take in everything from mild asthma to cases of leukemia.

These people have been categorised as high risk and, therefore, are obliged to work. Should a more differential approach be taken to high-risk individuals in the context of schools? Is it safe for all those categorised as high risk to mix with dozens of people every day? Should the high risk bracket be expanded to encompass more students and teachers who are vulnerable?