Childcare Providers Raise Concerns About Cessation Of Close Contacts In These Settings.

Thursday, 23 September 2021 09:18

There were 90 new outbreaks in schools last week, up 50 on the previous week.

Childcare providers are warning the decision to allow asymptomatic children who are close contacts remain in creches will result in increased closures this winter.

Yesterday it was announced under 12s who attend primary schools or childcare facilities and have no symptoms won't have to restrict movements from Monday.

“From Monday 27 September, we will change how we manage COVID-19 in our schools. Contact tracing of close contacts in childcare facilities and primary education and testing of asymptomatic close contacts in childcare facilities and primary education will no longer be necessary.
— Department of Health (@roinnslainte) September 22, 2021

The Chief Medical Officer says, given the importance of education, now is the right time to make the change as the data shows the facilities are low risk.

There were 90 new outbreaks in schools last week - up 50 on the previous week, while the number in childcare facilities fell from 22 to nine over the same period.

Chairperson of the Federation of Early Childhood Providers, Elaine Dunne, says they're "shocked" and "disappointed" at the decision:

Elaine Dunne, says they're seriously concerned

“Public health advice remains that any person, including children aged 12 yrs or under who displays symptoms consistent with COVID-19 should rapidly self-isolate and not attend school or to socialise until 48 hours after they are symptom free.”@CMOIreland
— Department of Health (@roinnslainte) September 22, 2021

Thousands of children have been missing school up until now as they have been deemed close contacts.

Labour’s Education spokesperson Aodhán Ó Ríordáin says this had to change