Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I also acknowledge the excellent and voluntary work done by members of boards of management across the country and how integral and valuable a resource they are to the education system.

Regarding issues relating to social distancing, the Deputy will be aware that, on the basis of the NPHET guidelines, social distancing is not regarded as possible at primary level for the first several year groups we are dealing with because of the age of the students involved. We are looking at a distance of 1 m, where practical, for older age groups. There has been excellent ongoing engagement with our Department. On specific issues, we have invited schools to engage with us where there is an opportunity for departmental officials to work on the ground in the unique circumstances that apply to each school. We are happy to do that on an ongoing basis and our helpline remains open.

Equally, however, for purposes of that nature, moneys referred to previously, such as those relating to the minor works grant, were made available to facilitate schools in reconfiguring and reimagining spaces. I refer, for example, to taking away excess furniture that might be in rooms. In essence, therefore, if there is an individual case of concern, I invite that school to engage directly with the Department. I assure the Deputy that my Department will certainly engage proactively in return.