Swann weighs in on school opening debate
The Health Minister said he thinks the approach adopted by the Executive was the right one
Last updated 24th Feb 2021
The Health Minister has defended the Executives decision to adopt a phased approach to the reopening of schools in Northern Ireland.
During today’s (Wednesday) press briefing Robin Swann said the medical and scientific advice was to act with “caution” and to “carefully assess and monitor the impact of reopening”.
He said: “We are all aware schools have been in the headlines this week and let me make it clear, as the father of two primary school age d children I want to see our schools fully opened as anyone else.
“But I want to see that happen when it’s saved and sensible to do so.”
“Many of the details around last weeks Executive meeting has already been reported and so people are aware that there were two options presented.
“One to open all schools from the 8th of March and the other one to permit a phased return from the 8th of March with the Department of Education deciding what cohorts they would prioritise.
“Whilst I note England has decided to open all Schools from March the 8th it is also important to recognise that Scotland, Wales and the Republic of Ireland have all decided on something else."
Minister Swann said that “we should not apologise for taking our own decisions” and he thinks the gradual approach agreed by Executive Ministers was the correct one.
He added: “Let’s remember what’s at stake here.
“We can’t jump the gun; we must not stumble when we can see the finishing line so close in the distance.
“I don’t want to be back here in the spring or early summer commenting on another Covid surge or on our hospitals filling up, or on our staff being exhausted and in despair.
“I don’t want to have to propose further restrictions at that point.
“So let’s not get ahead of ourselves, because there is always a danger when we discuss any easing of restrictions that some people will jump to the conclusions that the danger has passed.”
Speaking to Downtown Radio and Cool FM the Education Minister said he wants Executive Ministers to revisit the issue of how children should return to the classroom.
Peter Weir said: “I think we want to take all information into account.
“My position from the start has been that I wanted to see schools fully open and fully open from the 8th of March.
“But at the very least I don’t think the decision is just Westminster but in other jurisdictions I think we question whether we’re moving fast enough in Northern Ireland.
“But I think the Executive do need to discuss this issue again.”
Ministers are due to meet tomorrow (Thursday) to discuss NI’s road map out of lockdown and may revisit the issue of school restart.