On RTÉ TV on Monday night, Mr Donnelly said an issue had arisen that evening which meant Norma Foley was still negotiating with unions ahead of the Government's announcement later today. His clarification is the latest in a series of botched communications incidences by Government in the past week. On social media after his appearance on theClaire Byrne Live show, Mr Donnelly said: "Clarification re return of schools and meetings with the teaching unions concluded early this afternoon. Opposition reactionThe opposition has hit out at the confusion caused by Mr Donnelly's comments at a time when people are already under severe strain. Labour leader Alan Kelly said that his party would table a motion of no-confidence in Minister Donnelly if the State was not in a public health crisis.

Source: Irish Examiner February 23, 2021 09:11 UTC