Kathleen Funchion (Carlow-Kilkenny, Sinn Fein)
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548. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if children with additional needs will be subject to further school loss in September 2020 if social distancing is required of children. [14848/20]

Kathleen Funchion (Carlow-Kilkenny, Sinn Fein)
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549. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the measures which will be put in place to support children with complex needs and their families if a full return to school does not happen in September 2020. [14849/20]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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On Wednesday 1 July 2020, I welcomed the publication of interim public health advice for the safe re-opening of schools in late August/ September. This interim health advice sets out the key public health requirements that will be required for a safe full reopening of schools and the measures that will be required to achieve this.

Receipt of public health advice will underpin ongoing engagements with education partners and stakeholders in terms of planning and providing guidance for schools in relation to logistical and curricular arrangements and wellbeing, including the issues raised by the Deputy. This guidance will also outline the important measures required for infection prevention and control to ensure a full return to school is safe for children and staff, including children with complex needs.