Teacher unions are welcoming the Government's decision not to let Leaving Cert students go to school on Monday.
The U-turn means sixth year students won't be in class three days a week, but will be taught remotely until the end of this month instead.
TUI Executive Committee decides that members would not be attending workplaces from Monday - Union welcomes belated decision by Government to finally do the right thing https://t.co/B2zRh19HDX
— Teachers' Union Ire. (@TUIunion) January 7, 2021
The Government changed its mind after pressure from the teaching unions the ASTI and TUI who said their members wouldn't teach in class.
Minister for Education @NormaFoleyTD1 has confirmed that all schools will regrettably remain closed to students from Monday 11 January. https://t.co/WmeOH0bj0L
— education.ie (@Education_Ire) January 7, 2021
In a statement, the Education Minister Norma Foley said she had been “left with no alternative” but to “pause” plans to bring Leaving Cert students and children with special needs back to school.
“It is with regret that I announce that, despite the confirmation by Public Health that schools remain safe, that children in special schools and special classes and Leaving Certificate students will not be extended in-person learning,” said Minister Foley.
“My Department has engaged with the unions and public health officials with a view to maintaining on site learning for this vulnerable group of students.
“It remains my strong belief that this period of time is crucial for the mental wellbeing of all children with special needs.
“I also felt it was the right thing to extend in-class teaching to our Leaving Certificate students who are approaching a crucial time in their exam year.
“Unfortunately, I am left with no alternative but to pause the limited reopening on Monday to allow further engagement with all education stakeholders.”
