Covid-19 Pandemic

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 30 July 2020

Thursday, 30 July 2020

Questions (720)

Cian O'Callaghan

Question:

720. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Education and Skills if a special needs assistant, SNA, who has an underlying health condition and is advised not to return to school will be paid; if this leave will affect the person's standard sick leave; if SNAs caring for vulnerable persons will be expected to return to work; the way in which staggered times will affect SNA contracts; if reassignment will be considered again if schools are not to reopen; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20812/20]

Written answers

Minister for Education and Skills

My Department published The Roadmap for The Full Return to School, on Monday along with details of a financial package of over €375 million to support its implementation,  The roadmap outlines a comprehensive range of measures  to support the full reopening of schools in time for the start of the new school year.

Circulars are currently being prepared which will outline the special arrangements to be put in place by employers to cater for employees during this Covid-19 period. These circulars will be issued following consultation with the School Management Bodies and Unions.

 As a contingency for any such reoccurrence of closures whether localised or on a bigger scale it is vital that schools are prepared to ensure compliance with any public health restrictions. In this regard my Department is updating its Continuity of Schooling Guidance documents to support schools in responding in an agile way in the event of a localised school closure.