Covid-19 Pandemic

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 June 2020

Tuesday, 23 June 2020

Ceisteanna (275)

David Cullinane

Ceist:

275. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Minister for Education and Skills his plans for the reopening of schools regarding enhanced cleaning regimes; if deep cleaning of schools will be a requirement for all schools; if there will be a requirement for the use of professionals rather than allowing schools use volunteers in administering same; if schools will be expected to pay for the enhanced regime from their own budgets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12609/20]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Skills

On 12 June, my Department published the report to Government “Planning for reopening schools in line with the Roadmap for reopening society and business” https://www.education.ie/en/The-Department/Announcements/framework-for-reopening-and-operating-schools.html.

The report sets out the clear ambition to develop a sustainable plan to fully reopen schools at the start of the next school year in late August/September in line with normal timeframes.

The report also sets out in brief the contingencies, including the matter raised by the deputy, that must that must be considered during the coming period in the context of Covid-19. These contingencies and guidance will be worked through in detail in the coming weeks with education partners and stakeholders to ensure that the return to school is safe for children and staff.