Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
Staff & pupils urged to wear face masks in corridors
PUPILS and teachers in post-primary schools have now been recommended to wear masks in corridors and other communal areas.
Last night Education Minister Peter Weir issued a statement on the updated guidance, which will come into effect on Monday, when schools return on a full-time basis.
He says his department’s New School Day Guidance will now reflect the recommendation of wearing coverings.
The minister added: “My key priority is that pupils return to school on a fulltime basis, as soon as it is safe to do so.
“Following further advice which I have received today from the Chief Medical Officer and the Chief Scientific Adviser, I am recommending that pupils and teachers wear a face covering in corridors and other communal areas of post-primary schools from next week when schools return full-time.
“This updates the existing guidance on the use of face coverings in educational settings.
“The current public health advice is that the use of face coverings provides some benefits, however, it is not a replacement for frequent hand washing, social distancing where possible, covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze and regular cleaning of surfaces.
“It is also important to remember that evidence suggests that the risk of transmission in schools is relatively low compared to some other settings.
“I will continue to keep all guidance in respect of education settings under review in light of the latest medical and scientific advice.”