Written answers

Tuesday, 1 December 2020

Department of Education and Skills

Covid-19 Pandemic

Photo of Bríd SmithBríd Smith (Dublin South Central, People Before Profit Alliance)
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69. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if she will meet with members of a group (details supplied) regarding families with underlying conditions and Covid-19 safety in schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40015/20]

Photo of Norma FoleyNorma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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I am happy to consider any request received by my Department for a meeting.

The safety of students, staff and the whole school community has been of paramount importance in the approach to the safe operation of schools during Covid-19. The Department has engaged extensively with the HSE public health and the approach to the return to school has been led by the education specific guidance produced by HSE. The Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC) of the HSE has produced guidance in relation to the return to school for at risk groups. It outlines that children with immediate family members, including parents, in both the ‘high risk’ and ‘very high risk’ categories can return to school and that this is important for the child’s overall well-being. This is consistent with public health advice internationally in relation to at-risk family members. The guidance is available at the following link.

My Department is aware that some parents and children have had concerns about returning to school. My Department has developed and prepared a comprehensive response to supporting the wellbeing of school communities at this time. The resources and supports provided services such as the National Educational Psychological Service (NEPS) and the Tusla Education Support Service (TESS) are available to support families who are experiencing particularly challenging times. Schools may also consult with NEPS in relation to the academic, social and emotional needs of their students.

My Department has ongoing engagement with Public Health on all issues and guidance relating to Covid-19 in schools.

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