The majority of students at a national school in Co. Mayo have stayed at home today following concerns about the spread of Covid-19.
Just seven pupils arrived at Claremorris Boys National School this morning.
41 of the 125 students at the school have been instructed to self-isolate, leaving 84 students that could have attended school this morning.
The school had wanted to close early for Christmas after at least 12 cases were confirmed in the school since mid-term.
Despite this, the Department of Education told the Claremorris school it was to remain open.
Principal Mark Loftus said closing "was the prudent and safest option" to the school.
Parent Catherine Walsh chose to keep her son at home today and said "we're firmly backing our principal and the board in their efforts to help stop the spread in Claremorris".
