HSA has carried out just 2 school checks

JUST two schools have been inspected by the Health and Safety Authority for their Covid19 compliance, it has emerged.

In a parliamentary question released to Sinn Féin’s Louise O’Reilly, it was revealed just two educational facilities were inspected by the HSA between May 17 and October 7.

And one of the schools investigated failed on every criteria, it was reported yesterday. Ms O’Reilly, Sinn Féin spokeswoman on business, said it was an ‘embarrassing disgrace’ that so few inspections had been made.

‘Creches, schools, and colleges are workplaces, and everyone – workers and students alike – has

‘Findings are very positive’

the right to be safe and protected at work,’ she said.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin has said the priority is keep schools, colleges and childcare facilities open throughout all levels of Covid-19 restrictions, and that everything would be done to achieve that, including prioritising schools above sports and opening pubs.

A spokesman for the Department of Education told the Irish Daily Mail that other inspections are being undertaken in schools.

He said inspectors are currently carrying out a programme of Safe and Sustainable Provision of Schooling (SSPS) visits, in a trial phase, in primary, post-primary and special schools.

The spokesman said that from September 14 to October 22, inspectors have conducted 64 such trial visits in 36 primary schools, 25 post-primary schools and three centres for education. He said: ‘Findings from those trial visits undertaken to date are very positive, with most schools and centres found to be fully compliant with the checks undertaken.’