Neasa Hourigan (Dublin Central, Green Party)
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71. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills her plans to provide targeted financial assistance to parents in relation to the cost of providing face masks for children in schools given the recent Covid-19 related health advice; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [60618/21]

Réada Cronin (Kildare North, Sinn Fein)
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83. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if public schools will be given free, high-quality masks for every child in the interest of public health; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [60746/21]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 71 and 83 together.

The Department of Education has always been guided by Public Health as to the mitigation measures needed to prevent the spread of Covid-19 in our schools. NPHET has recommended and the Government has approved a measure introducing the wearing of face masks by children in a number of settings including in 3rd class and above in primary schools. The measure is being introduced on a temporary basis and is subject to review in mid-February 2022.

Given that masks are now in use in a range of settings, students are encouraged to bring their own face coverings. If a student forgets or misplaces their mask, schools are asked to provide them with a spare mask. Schools have also been provided with significant additional resources of €639m in the last academic year to keep schools safe in line with the covid-19 response plans.

Further funding of €57.6 million has been paid by way of Covid-19 capitation to schools in September for the implementation of infection prevention and control measures for this term. This funding will cater for school costs related to hand hygiene measures, PPE requirements including masks, and enhanced cleaning supports and supervision. Further funding for next term will issue to schools in January.