A recommendation for a phased reopening of schools in the coming weeks is expected to be made as part of the government's revised Living with Covid plan.

What impact have these prolonged closures had on children's mental health and development, and how can we get them back to school and creche safely?

We spoke to Lucinda Creighton, CEO of Vulcan Consulting and columnist with the Business Post, Ombudsman for Children Dr Niall Muldoon and Karen Clince, CEO of Tigers Childcare.