Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 1 December 2020
108. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Minister for Education if she will consider closing schools early for the Christmas period in view of Covid-19-related concerns; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40019/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe scheduling of the school holiday periods during the academic years is agreed between the managerial authorities of schools, the teacher unions and my Department for the purposes of standardising breaks at Christmas, Easter and mid-term. This is important to ensure certainty for the school community about the dates of school holidays.
There are no plans to alter the school break at Christmas. It should also be borne in mind that it is the view of Public Health that the evidence available to date shows that schools are proving to be safe spaces for children and for staff.
