DUBLIN: Health Minister Stephen Donnelly said that there is “no fixed date” for when schools in Ireland will open. Discussions are ongoing between the Department of Education and the teachers unions about holding the Leaving Cert and bringing students back to the classrooms. ASTI had stayed away from the discussion due to differences over re-opening plans. But the Minister said that their willingness to negotiate again increased the possibility of the school re-opening.
“It’s great that the special schools have reopened on a phased basis, it’s great that we’re going to see the special classes in mainstream schools opening up again from Monday week, from February 22. Obviously we need to get the Leaving Cert students back as quickly as possible, but my understanding is that there are no fixed dates as of yet,” health minister said.
The minister said reports that some GPs were refusing to administer the coronavirus vaccine were shocking. He said those facing such problems should contact HSE live line and they would be informed where to get vaccinated. He said: “GPs who don’t want to vaccinate themselves, so be it.” But he added that it’s not right not to give it to those who need it.
“Certainly the vast, vast majority of healthcare workers around the country have been, not only getting vaccinated, but very much demanding that they get vaccinated as quickly as possible,” the minister said.
Minister Donnelly said it was not clear when the lockdown restrictions would end. “I would love to have an accurate answer, as would Government, as would NPHET,” he said. He further said COVID numbers still needed to be lowered before the restrictions could be eased.
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