Coronavirus: All schools, colleges and childcare facilities to close
ALL schools, colleges, childcare facilities and cultural institutions will close in response to the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).
In an address this morning, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said that schools, colleges and childcare facilities will close from 6pm this evening until March 29.
The Taoiseach, who made the address from Washington DC, where he is on a short visit for St Patrick's Day, also announced a number of other measures to help combat the spread of coronavirus.
Indoor mass gatherings of more than 100 people and open-air gatherings of 500 people or more should be cancelled.
The Taoiseach said that people are still able to go to work but, if possible, should work remotely or if in the office, stagger working/break times.
Public transport will continue to operate and shops will remain open.
People arriving into the country through airports and ports will be notified and should self-isolate should they develop symptoms.
Social gatherings should be reduced and social distancing should be applied where possible.
Members of the public and businesses were urged by the Taoiseach to take a “sensible and level headed” approach.
In a statement by the Department of Education following the Taoiseach’s announcement, members of the public were advised to minimise social contact, avoid meeting up and to keep physical space.
The Department urged parents and guardians to support their children in maintaining this approach.
Speaking on the decision to close schools, Minister for Education and Skills Joe McHugh TD said: “This is the right decision at the right time.
“It is taken in the best interests of our children, our young people, our school and college communities and our wider society.
“At this point in time the closure is planned for two weeks, from tomorrow until 29 March.
“The Government, in conjunction with the public health authorities, will keep the situation under ongoing review.
“Any change to that date will be communicated widely.”
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He added: “Pupils should take their books and learning materials home with them this evening.
“This is a very challenging time for our pupils, our teachers, our students and our colleagues in further and higher education.”
Around 80 per cent of cases of Covid-19 will be mild to moderate illness, close to 14 per cent are severe and around six per cent critical.
For those who have questions surrounding the coronavirus (COVID-19), visit the HSE’s website HERE, or contact the HSELive team by calling 1850 24 1850 or 041 685 0300.
HSE contacts HERE.
