Carol Nolan (Laois-Offaly, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I think the real problem lies with the Department guidelines. The guidelines state that the windows have to be "partially open" during class time. Unfortunately, many of our schools buildings are very old and indeed, are prefabs. That is where the problems lies. The majority of principals and teachers are adhering exactly to what they are being told by the Department. Even when they are adhering to those exact guidelines, there is still an issue. Does the Tánaiste accept that the Department's guidelines now need to be urgently updated, given that we are expecting to return to a greater degree of normality, which is most welcome? I appreciate the efforts of the Minister for Education and of the Government in trying to get the balance right, but I genuinely believe there is a problem here. It lies within the Department guidelines. We must ensure that there is common sense, cop-on and safety. Schools have done a fantastic job in keeping the schools running up to this point.

I also want to highlight an issue to the Tánaiste that has been raised with me by leaving certificate students, which relates to the issues in terms of the cold and children not being able to concentrate. The students are looking for the hybrid examination model. They feel that their studies have been disrupted and they cannot concentrate in class. I am calling for that issue to be addressed and for clarity to be given to leaving certificate students.

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