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School Facilities

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 July 2020

Tuesday, 14 July 2020

Questions (682)

Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire

Question:

682. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Education and Skills the number of primary and post-primary schools that have access to adequate hot water; the estimated cost to ensure that every school has hot water; and if all schools will have access to hot water in view of the current pandemic. [16000/20]

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Written answers

The specific information requested by the Deputy regarding the number of primary and post-primary school that have access to hot water is not readily available within my Department.

The Covid 19 Interim Recommendations for the reopening of schools and educational facilities public health guidance states that while warm running water is preferable for handwashing, that cold water is sufficient. In schools which do not have warm running water, a soap that emulsifies easily in cold water will be provided.

It is also recognised that the existing handwashing facilities in schools are not designed for the enhanced level of handwashing envisaged in a post COVID-19 environment without significantly impacting on educational class time including the requirement for a high level of supervision by teachers to ensure pupils wash their hands properly.

The public health guidance also states that hand sanitiser can be used. It is anticipated hand-sanitisers in key areas in every school in the country, as well as in every classroom will be provided. To enable the supply of sanitizer fluid for each school, a drawdown framework for use by schools to purchase sanitiser etc. (as well as other potential PPE requirements) is in the process of being established by the Department.

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