Clarity and class size reduction needed for reopening of Schools – Tully

The Sinn Féin party has published a Dáil motion calling on the government to immediately begin the process of drastically reducing school class sizes.

The motion, which will be debated in the Dáil during Sinn Féin’s private members time tomorrow night (Tuesday), also calls on the government to ensure that the roadmap to reopen schools is adequately resourced and that there is a dedicated strategy to support students who have fallen behind in recent months.

Speaking about the motion and the reopening of schools, Cavan Monaghan Sinn Féin TD, Pauline Tully said: “The lack of clarity on the reopening of schools is extremely concerning. We need to see clear proposals from the Minister for Education on the reopening of schools in the coming days."

Her comments come ahead of a major Government announcement today (Monday).

A comprehensive plan to fully reopen schools to all pupils on a full-time basis is due to be announced by the government some time today.

Deputy Tully is demanding a roadmap now.

"Schools have been closed now for over four months and we are now just one month away from when one million children are supposed to return to school.

"Parents, students, teachers, support staff and transport operators need certainty now."

Claiming that Ireland has one of the highest class sizes in Europe, Deputy Tully feels this will be a "major hurdle" in terms of reopening schools safely

She contended: "The failure of successive governments to tackle this issue has put us in a particularly vulnerable position which if not tackled will leave grave safety concerns for the reopening of schools.

"Investment will also be crucial for the safe reopening of schools. Some schools still do not have reliable hot running water in their buildings and this motion will compel the government to ensure that schools have the resources they need in terms of staffing levels, hygiene and space to safely reopen."

The Sinn Féin proposal also provides for additional support for Special Education, Special Education Teachers, SNAs, and investment in Home School Community Liaison.

"We are in this situation of uncertainty and worry for parents today because of a failure to plan by this government and a failure to invest by successive governments. Drastically reducing class sizes is crucial for reopening schools and must be a key priority in the time ahead."