Statement by the Department of Education and Skills on the opening of schools this week [education.ie]
- Published: 29 November 2010
In relation to the opening of schools this week (29th November 2010) against the backdrop of bad weather conditions, the Department wishes to clarify that at present it is a matter for individual boards of management to decide whether local circumstances warrant the closure of the school.
Schools are empowered to make such decisions locally without notifying the Department in advance.
In making these decisions, schools should consider such issues as access and safety and co-ordinate their approach with other schools in the locality where feasible.
In relation to the operation of school bus services, Bus Éireann will make decisions locally based on its knowledge and assessment of prevailing conditions.
There is no direction in place from the Department at this time that all schools should close. The position will be kept under review and further advice will be provided as circumstances warrant.
ENDS
