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Health Minister Stephen Donnelly moved to clarify comments he made, which suggested that talks were taking place between the Education Minister and teachers’ unions about reopening schools.
In a comment posted on Twitter, Minister Donnelly explained that the talks “had concluded” and that the government “intends to make an announcement” about the reopening of schools after the Cabinet this afternoon.
His suggestion on RTÉ’s Claire Byrne Live last night that the talks were ongoing, less than 24 hours before the Cabinet made a major announcement on the issue, led Labor education spokesperson Aodhan O’Riordain to characterize the government as ” dysfunctional. ” “
A spokesman for the Ministry of Education said later that talks on public health were held with the teachers’ unions yesterday afternoon and, after their conclusion, the union delegates came out to inform their managers.
Clarification from Minister Donnelly and the Department of Education suggests that the Government’s announcement on the reopening of the schools will be made after the Cabinet this afternoon as originally planned.
Clarification on the return of schools – Meetings with the teacher unions concluded this afternoon. The government intends to make an announcement after the Cabinet in accordance with the plans already outlined.
– Stephen Donnelly (@DonnellyStephen) February 23, 2021
The plan is understood to include infants in first and second year, first and second class in elementary schools, as well as Leaving Cert students in high school returning to class on March 1, next Monday.
The other elementary classes – 3rd through 6th, as well as 5th grade, will return to school on March 15th.
All other high school classes are scheduled to return on April 12, after the scheduled Easter break.
RTÉ News understands that the Cabinet is also ready to announce a gradual reopening of the child care sector in its revised Living With Covid plan, including target dates by which the stages will be reached.
The Cabinet is also expected to decide to retain the Level 5 restrictions until April 5, when they will be extended or relaxed.
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