Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 September 2020
569. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Minister for Education if clear guidelines will be issued for primary and secondary schools on drop off and collection of students in view of the significant issues experienced over the recent reopening of schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22018/20]
View answerIn accordance with the provisions of the Education Act, 1998 the board of management is the body charged with the direct governance of a school. School starting times and finishing times are matters for individual boards of management.
School COVID-19 Response Plans for the safe and sustainable reopening of both primary and post-primary schools outlines that “staggered drop off/pick up times should be considered where practical and feasible”. In this regard pupil(s) should not lose tuition time based on staggered drop off/ pick up times. If a school wishes to use staggered drop off and pick up times they can do so to ensure all pupils are at the school for the start of the school day and likewise at the end of the school day.
