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Covid-19 Pandemic

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 5 March 2020

Thursday, 5 March 2020

Ceisteanna (292)

Thomas Byrne

Ceist:

292. Deputy Thomas Byrne asked the Minister for Education and Skills the response within his Department to cases of Covid-19 in schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3395/20]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

My Department has disseminated information, guidance and letters from the Chief Medical Officer of the Dept. of Health to all schools via post, Esinet and through our online systems. Aegis bodies and education partners have also been sent these materials

When a case is confirmed, the HSE conducts contact tracing, to identify people with whom the patient may have been in close contact. Public health doctors would then make direct contact with the family of the patient, the relevant school authority and staff, pupils and their parents. All parents of the pupils attending the school and all staff employed there would also be contacted by the Director of Public Health in the HSE.

My Department has been working closely with colleagues in the Department of Health to support communications to the school community and to education settings throughout the country.

A number of different coordinating groups have been established at official level to support planning and communications on COVID-19 and this Department is represented on these groups. 

Public health doctors are available to liaise with schools and advise on precautions if staff and/or students have any concerns.

Question No. 293 answered with Question No. 289.
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