Department of Education issues statement ahead of schools re-opening on Monday

All restrictions will be removed from schools.

The Department of Education says schools can resume as normal on Monday, February 28th. It has been confirmed that all Covid-19 measures will be removed from Monday. From Monday, face masks will no longer be mandatory in schools, but they will be on public transport, as well as in healthcare settings. School principals have been told to remove any remaining restrictions immediately. This means social distancing measures, mask-wearing, and staggered school breaks will end. There will also no longer be staggered drop-off and collection times. Pods in primary schools will also be discontinued. Students will now be allowed to enjoy choir practice, sports classes, and breakfast clubs. There will also be no restrictions during lunchtimes in both the staff rooms or break rooms. Restrictions on school visitors have also been lifted, which means parent-teacher meetings will be allowed. However, both students and their parents have been urged to stay home if they test positive for Covid-19. The Government has stressed that Covid-19 is still here so people are advised to be cautious. People should still isolate if they're symptomatic, even if they're fully vaccinated and boosted. You should also continue basic hand and respiratory hygiene. The Department confirmed that current arrangements in place in respect of the schools’ antigen testing program will continue. The lifting of restrictions has been met with controversy with many saying it is too soon. But many students will be relieved for things to return to normal.