Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
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523. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if a reply will issue to correspondence (details supplied) in respect of the concerns of SNAs regarding the reopening of schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1678/21]

Josepha Madigan (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael)
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I am aware of the correspondence referred to by the Deputy and a response will issue to same as soon as possible.

My Department is conscious of the fact that closing schools has hugely adverse consequences at individual, family and societal level and that the effect on children with special educational needs can be even greater.

Because of this, the Department sought to prioritise in-person teaching and learning for pupils/students attending special schools and special classes and to allow these facilities to reopen from Monday 11th January.

Unfortunately, following a number of meetings with education partners, including trade unions and school management bodies in recent days, and despite the confirmation by Public Health that schools remain safe, it has not proved possible to get agreement on the provision of in-person teaching and learning for children in special schools and special classes at this time.

In supporting schools on issues of health, safety and welfare, the Department is guided by the expert advice published by the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC).

The advice from the HPSC to the Department of Education has recommended that face coverings should be worn by all staff members where it is not possible to maintain a physical distance of 2 metres from other staff, parents, essential visitors or pupils.

Special Needs Assistants attend to the care needs of some of the most vulnerable students and I acknowledge the need for them to have appropriate protective masks and face coverings when they are carrying out intimate care functions in the course of their work. Funding has been provided to schools for necessary PPE including face masks.

The Department is continuing to engage with education partners in relation to these matters.