Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 July 2020
668. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Minister for Education and Skills if her Department will provide increased financial support up front to schools in order to allow for the necessary increase in the number of cleaning staff prior to schools reopening; if so, when this will be made available; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15858/20]
View answerMy Department is engaging with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform on the requirement to provide funding to support enhanced cleaning needs and we will provide further details of the support available once the arrangements are finalised.
Arrangements have also been made for a drawdown framework to be established to enable schools purchase hand-sanitisers for use in the school and classroom. The procurement process for this framework has already commenced and it is intended these materials will be available in early August.
My Department will continue to engage closely with education partners and other key stakeholders on the plan for re-opening of schools for the 2020-21 school year with the aim of reducing the burden on schools at a local level by providing central guidance and supports to the greatest extent possible.
