Mayo TD supports call to delay reopening of schools after Christmas break

Mayo TD Rose Conway-Walsh is supporting calls for the reopening of schools after the Christmas break to be delayed.

The INTO yesterday called on Minister for Education to extend primary schools' Christmas holidays for a period after the scheduled January 6 return.

General secretary John Boyle said the number of confirmed cases in the schools has grown at an alarming rate with nearly 700 primary school children testing positive in the 14 days before schools shut for the holidays.

He said keeping the schools closed would give scientists an opportunity to engage with the government.

Speaking today to Midwest Radio, Deputy Conway-Walsh said there is merit in the proposal.

"I believe it would be helpful to teachers in getting fully prepared for the return of pupils after Christmas, taking into account the sharp rise in Covid cases in the community," she said.

The Erris-based TD praised the efficient testing procedures in Mayo.

She said she was referred for a test in Castlebar in recent days after feeling unwell and received a negative result within 24 hours.

"I am restricting my movements now, but it is important to state the testing procedures in Mayo are very satisfactory," she added.