Holly Cairns (Cork South West, Social Democrats)
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470. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if she plans to remove the mask mandate for children in national schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9736/22]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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On 17th February 2022, NPHET reviewed the remaining public health measures including the infection prevention control measures and restrictions in school settings. The Government has accepted the recommendations of the NPHET to remove remaining restrictions relating to mask-wearing and physical distancing in schools with effect from Monday 28th February.

While it will no longer be a requirement for staff or pupils to wear a mask in school, staff and pupils can continue to wear a mask if they wish to do so on a personal basis and schools should continue to make masks available on request to staff or pupils as they are currently doing.