Government ministers meeting to discuss the reopening of schools

A final decision isn't expected until tomorrow.

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Senior government ministers are meeting this afternoon to discuss whether schools should stay closed until the end of this month.

Health officials have raised concerns about the ability to re-open schools due to rising rates of Covid-19.

Just yesterday, the Department of Education said it fully intends for schools to re-open next Monday.

However this afternoon, the cabinet sub-committee on Covid-19 is meeting to consider closing schools until the end of January.

The Taoiseach, Tanaiste, Health Minister and Education Minister will be among those attending along with NPHET officials.

A final decision isn't expected until tomorrow.

The Ombudsman for Children has urged the government to avoid a blanket closure of schools because of the disproportionate impact it would have on children with disabilities and those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Health officials have raised concerns about the rising incidence rates in children of schoolgoing age. However, they do say they're still lower than the general population.