Catherine Connolly (Galway West, Independent)
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448. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if she will make a commitment that the Covid-19 level of capitation funding for each primary school pupil will be maintained at a minimum in the upcoming Budget; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28168/20]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy is aware, on 27 July 2020 the Government announced the publication of Reopening Our Schools: The Roadmap for The Full Return to School, along with details of a financial package of over €375 million to support its implementation, following approval by Government.

The roadmap outlined a comprehensive range of measures that are being provided to support the full reopening of schools.

The roadmap was developed following intensive engagement with stakeholders from the education sector, including teachers’ unions, representatives of principals and deputy principals, school management bodies, representatives of parents and post-primary students and support staff.

The roadmap and the funding package recognise the challenges faced by schools in ensuring the safe return of over one million students and approximately 100,000 staff in 4,000 schools in the context of COVID-19. It sets out clear plans and practical guidance on the measures schools need to take to operate safely and minimise the risk of the introduction, or spread, of infection in schools.

The financial package approved by Government to support schools recognises that COVID-19 poses significant challenges with regard to staffing, particularly in regard to replacement of staff, substitution, supervision and the need for well-being supports.