Covid-19: Teachers say reopening special schools rushed and reckless
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Special education schools in Ireland are still set to reopen next Monday, January 11 despite mainstream schools staying closed over the surge in Covid-19, and teachers have slammed the Government s decision.
The government has today January 6 announced the closure of the majority of primary schools until 1 February 2021.
The Irish National Teachers Organisation (INTO) say they were not consulted and say there are not enough protections in place. After two days of increasing speculation, For the second time during this pandemic, mainstream primary education will move online. INTO understands that special schools, special classes and other specialised settings - secure units, etc. will reopen on Monday, 11 January 2021. The Department of Education did not consult with the INTO on this decision to provide face to face education for children with special educational needs.
Childcare providers are calling for more clarity on the definition of frontline and essential workers, the day before they have been asked to reopen to cater for priority groups.
Teachers’ unions have welcomed the delayed opening of schools, saying that while opening the doors was the preferred option, public safety is the priority.
The Government last night confirmed an extension to the school Christmas holidays, with pupils now due back on Monday January 11, instead of the previous Wednesday.
Michael Gillespie, general secretary of the Teachers Union of Ireland (TUI) said while the union had wanted schools to open up as normal after Christmas, that was only ever going to be possible “if it was safe”.
“Our members are very anxious, we are in schools and colleges with students from 13 to 18 years of age.
Teachers unions have welcomed the delayed opening of schools, saying that while opening the doors was the preferred option, public safety is the priority.