Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 15 September 2020
423. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Education if guidance and information has been provided to parents who have decided to homeschool their children due to Covid-19; if so, if she will provide a copy of same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23779/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraHome schooling is a matter which is dealt with by Tusla and parents can access information in relation to home schooling via www.tusla.ie/tess/information-for-parents-and-guardians-tess/education-welfare-service/can-i-teach-my-child-at-home/.
My Department is aware that some parents and children will have concerns about returning to school. My Department has developed and prepared a comprehensive response to supporting the wellbeing of school communities at this time. NEPS will work with schools to support them to meet the needs of their students on their return to school.
The HPSC has also produced guidance in relation to the return to school for at risk groups. It outlines that children with immediate family members, including parents, in both the ‘high risk’ and ‘very high risk’ categories can return to school and it is important for the child’s overall well-being.
This is consistent with public health advice internationally in relation to at-risk family members. The guidance is available at the following link. www.hpsc.ie/a-z/respiratory/coronavirus/novelcoronavirus/guidance/educationguidance/HSE%20advice%20on%20return%20to%20school.pdf.
The priority is that the household continues to follow all current advice on how to minimise the risk of coronavirus, through regular hand washing, cough etiquette etc.
