Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I have two short questions. I am not sure whether Mr. Boyle or Mr. Gillespie mentioned children travelling overseas during Christmas. Is there anything the witnesses think the Department of Education should be doing now to highlight the fact that children have to self-isolate when they come back? There was an issue in September when some kids returned from overseas two or three days before the school started back and they returned to school straightaway.

I raised the issue of capitation grants with the Minister when she attended the committee previously. I have spoken to school principals and staff about hand sanitisation and whether it will become the norm in schools going forward. There will be a huge financial burden if it is to become the norm. It has proven effective against the spread of 'flu and things like that. What are the witnesses' thoughts on this? Do they believe hand sanitisation will be the norm going forward? Would they like it to be continued for the safety of pupils and teachers? I would welcome a brief comment on this from the teacher unions.