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Covid-19 Pandemic

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 February 2021

Wednesday, 17 February 2021

Ceisteanna (417)

Holly Cairns

Ceist:

417. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Education the correspondence and engagement she has had with primary school and secondary school boards of management regarding the operating of schools during the Covid-19 pandemic since 1 August 2020; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8363/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

My Department published The Roadmap for the full return to School on 27 July 2020. This details the ongoing communication arrangements and continued stakeholder engagement on the implementation of the measures set out in the roadmap to support the continued operation of schools. In this regard the Roadmap states that my Department will continue to engage closely with education partners and other key stakeholders, including school management bodies and staff representatives on the implementation of measures set out in the roadmap to support the continued operation of schools. Management bodies provide advice and support to school Boards of Management and are centrally involved in engagements with the Department on all issues relating to schools and COVID-19.

Detailed stakeholder engagement has been a critical factor in identifying the complex challenges that arise for schools and their Boards across a number of areas, including logistical challenges in meeting cleaning and physical distancing requirements, curriculum and assessment matters, and the wellbeing and welfare of the school community on reopening.

Following a period of intensive engagement with the education partners, the Department has agreed a return to in-school teaching and learning for students with special educational needs attending special classes at primary and post-primary level.

The full re-opening of our schools for all students remains a top priority for Government and my Department is focussing on the safe return of all pupils and students to school on a phased basis in March.

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