Richard O'Donoghue (Limerick County, Independent)
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79. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if discussions are expected to implement the return of mask wearing in schools due to the increase of the virus in the community; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17094/22]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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The Department has always been guided by public health advice in relation to appropriate COVID-19 infection prevention and control measures in place in schools. On 17 February 2022, NPHET reviewed the remaining public health measures including the infection prevention control measures and restrictions in school settings.

Having closely considered relevant epidemiological data and other matters as set out in their letter of 17 February 2022, the Government accepted the recommendation of the NPHET to remove remaining restriction relating to mask-wearing in schools.

Staff and pupils/students can continue to wear a face mask if they wish to do so on a personal basis and schools should continue to make masks available on request as they are currently doing. Funding to support the purchase of PPE, including masks, continues to be made available to schools.