School Staff

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 June 2020

Tuesday, 9 June 2020

Questions (114)

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

114. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to manage teacher absences through certified illness and leave when schools reopen with regard to the already significant layers of social distancing management and other additional responsibilities if the Covid-19 disease is still spreading; if a plan has been put in place for substitute teachers to be assigned to schools in such cases that is additional to the systems already in place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9724/20]

Written answers

Minister for Education and Skills

The general principles to apply to the management of COVID-19 includes the safety and welfare of employees and the minimisation of the impact of COVID-19 on teaching and learning.

On the 1st May 2020, the Taoiseach announced as part of the "Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business" that schools will commence opening on a phased basis at the beginning of the 2020/2021 academic year.

Because of the diversity of Institutions providing education, the opening of such Institutions needs to be carefully managed and planning has already commenced in my Department. This process includes consultation with stakeholders, takes into account the experience of other countries and the ongoing public health advice. The staffing of schools will be considered as part of this process.

Question No. 115 answered with Question No. 97.