The government is to make a decision on whether schools should reopen next week on Wednesday, according to Health Minister Stephen Donnelly.
It comes as the Teachers Union of Ireland is calling for schools to remain closed until at least January 18th.
The union says this will allow for the 14-day period that is required to determine whether or not the implementation of the Level 5 measures has been effective in suppressing spread of the virus in the community.
Schools are currently set to return next Monday, but Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald says that's "not realistic".
Spoke with Taoiseach to raise growing concern on safe return to school & childcare - return next Monday is not realistic. Imperative that plan to safely open is produced. Clarity needed. Also pressed again for govt to #PayStudentNursesandMidwives who are on the Frontline #COVID19
— Mary Lou McDonald (@MaryLouMcDonald) January 4, 2021
Earlier today, the Department of Education said it fully intends to reopen schools on the 11th of January.
The reopening of schools on Monday is expected to be discussed when the Cabinet Sub-committee on Covid 19 meets tomorrow.
The three party leaders along with the Health, Finance and Public Expenditure Ministers will attend as well as senior health officials.
