Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 October 2020
306. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Education the reason for the restrictions in place under level 3 of the living with Covid-19 plan; if clarity will be provided for schools that have been seriously impacted financially by these measures; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30953/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraKeeping schools safely open for children and staff is a key priority at all levels of the Resilience and Recovery 2020-2021: Plan for Living with COVID-19. At levels 1-4 inclusive, schools can remain open with protective measures, and at level 5, recommendations will be based on the situation and evidence at the time.
My Department published the report "Reopening Our Schools, The Roadmap for the Full Return to School" in late July along with details of a significant financial package to support the implementation of the measures in the roadmap, following approval by the Government. The package of supports is expected to cost in excess of €437 million in the 2020/2021 school year.
The range of supports being made available to schools includes additional financial supports to provide for additional staffing, management supports, enhanced cleaning, hand hygiene and personal protective equipment costs under the Covid-19 response plans. The Government also approved a package of minor works grants as part of the July Stimulus to support schools to prepare their buildings and classrooms for reopening.
Each school is required to have a COVID-19 Response Plan for the safe operation through the prevention, early detection and control of COVID-19 in line with public health advice and the supports outlined will help schools to implement the practical steps required to minimise the risk of transmission of infection in schools.
