Stormont assembly recalled to discuss deteriorating Covid situation in schools

You are viewing content from Q Mid Ulster 106. Would you like to make this your preferred location?

By Q Radio news

The Stormont Assembly is being recalled today to discuss the covid 19 situation in schools.

It follows a petition put forward by Sinn Fein after some principals expressed concern that guidance on testing and tracing has caused a high number of pupils to miss classes.

MLAs will call on the Education Minister, Michelle McIlveen,  to “develop clear and robust guidance” for school staff.

A proposal for health officials to take over responsibility for tracing Covid close contacts in schools will allow teachers to return to working with children, a union boss has said.

Teaching unions were briefed on the plan, which still needs to be officially approved, to have the Public Health Agency (PHA) take over contact tracing during a meeting on Wednesday.

The current policy, in which teachers have been largely responsible for tracing close contacts, has been widely criticised.

It is hoped the new proposal would reduce the number of children who are currently absent due to close contact with a positive case and reduce pressure on the PCR testing system.

(Stormont Education minister, Michelle McIlveen)


 

More from Q Radio Local News


Join the Thank Q Club

Sign up for the Thank Q Club and receive exclusive offers, fun competitions and amazing prizes - it's quick and easy to do!

Sign Up Log In

Listen on the go

Download the Q Radio app to keep listening, wherever you are! It's available on Apple and Android devices.

Download from the App Store Download from Google Play