It could mean schools applying different social-distancing rules than other parts of society to ensure that children are not facing a part-time return to the classroom in August/September. Teachers union leaders have warned that they will not tolerate a return to school that flouts whatever social-distancing rules are in place at the time. The Government was aiming for "a sustainable plan for reopening schools, which will protect the health of school communities while promoting the educational and development needs of the nation's children". He said there were "difficulties" relating to social-distancing rules, but suggested "bespoke solutions", like the procedures being brought in for creches. Teachers' Union of Ireland president Seamus Lahart said: "The oblique suggestion that classrooms could operate without social distancing is both odd and alarming.

Source: The Herald June 13, 2020 01:18 UTC