Call for mandatory masks at schools

Disability Rights Commissioner Paula Tesoriero is calling on the Government to reconsider its position and make mask wearing mandatory for schoolchildren. The Government lifted the mask mandate in schools on April 13, when the country moved to the orange traffic light setting. School leaders were left tomake their own calls on mask rules for staff and students, causing a backlash from health experts. Tesoriero said that for some disabled people, wearing amask, and requiring others to wear them, provided necessary protection as well as great comfort. There is still no Covid-19 vaccine for under-fives, and the majority of 5to 11-year-olds are yet to receive their recommended two doses.