Peadar Tóibín (Meath West, Aontú)
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398. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if her attention has been drawn to schools that have excluded children from certain educational activities, after-school activities, or school trips due to their vaccination status or that of their parents; and if this is in line with the policy of her Department. [54017/21]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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The Government has always been guided by public health advice in relation to the safe operation of schools. Public health has consistently advised that schools are safe places for both students and staff because of the infection prevention and control measures in place in our schools.

As part of the public health response to the pandemic, all those who are eligible are being strongly encouraged to avail of a vaccine when it is offered. The vast majority of teachers and staff have now been vaccinated. Those who are not vaccinated are not precluded from safely attending school or taking part in school activities.

Vaccinations are available for all children over 12 years. Children aged 12 to 15 cannot be vaccinated without the consent of a parent or legal guardian. The uptake in this age cohort is also very encouraging.