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Schools affected by a hand sanitizer recall related to public health concerns have been told they can close Friday if they deem it necessary.
The Department of Agriculture, which issued the recall of the Virapro product, said prolonged use can cause dermatitis, eye irritation, upper respiratory irritation and headaches.
Some of the products contain methanol instead of ethanol, he said.
“Tests conducted by the Department show that some of the disinfectants for sale do not meet the regulations governing the content and efficacy of such products,” he said.
“The public is advised to stop using this disinfectant with immediate effect. A Department investigation into this matter is ongoing. “
Product vendors are on a list of 11 authorized to provide protective equipment to schools.
In response to the alert, the Department of Education told schools they could close on Friday or finish early, if it was deemed appropriate to do so.
“The Department of Education is informing all schools of the need to verify if they have used this provider and have stocks of this product. Schools should follow the advice of the Department of Agriculture to stop using it, ”he said.
“On Friday October 23, schools affected by this can make local arrangements to purchase hand sanitizer stocks and can maximize the use of hand washing to support necessary hand hygiene.
“If a school that is affected finds it necessary to do so, they can choose to close for the day or close early on Friday, October 23.”
He said any school that is having difficulty obtaining an alternative sanitizer should contact the Department’s Covid-19 helpline or send an email.
“Additional funds will be provided to schools so they can purchase necessary supplies from an alternative supplier,” he said.
Sinn Féin education spokesperson Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire raised the issue Thursday night when the House rose.
He called the Minister of Education to make a brief statement and explain what happened.
But it was ruled out by Ceann Comhairle Seán Ó Fearghaíl.
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