Taoiseach must ‘take control’ of school reopenings, says TD

A Labour TD is calling on Taoiseach Michael Martin to “take control” of the ongoing controversies surrounding the reopening of schools.

Labour spokesperson on Education, Aodhán Ó Ríordáin TD said that “despite the many missives from the Minister (of Education), the re-opening of SEN schools and classes on Thursday looks increasingly unlikely.

“Children with special needs are regressing rapidly, and their parents are at breaking point. This is just not good enough.”

Deputy Ó Ríordáin c said that the uncertainty surrounding school reopenings “is a mess entirely of the department’s own making.”

“Through mismanagement, they have damaged the partnership approach that has worked since September.

“While everyone’s ultimate wish is to resume in-person special education, this is only on the basis that it is safe to do so in agreement with the unions.

“Given the dire situation we now find ourselves in, I’m calling on the Taoiseach to intervene and rapidly rebuild the trust between groups that the Minister has forfeited.”

As Special Educational Needs schools are due to reopen on January 21, Deputy Ó Ríordáin says that the Minister of Education Norma Foley “has a duty to these families to be updfront and honest about what’s going to happen.”

“At this point, it’s clear that there is a lack of leadership on education.

“Our Leaving Cert’s were suddenly recalled, a decision that was reversed once the Minister actually considered the public health advice.

“What’s more, we’re still waiting on some form of communication about the plans to hold this year’s state examinations – or not.”