19/08/2009

Teachers Meet Officials Over Swine Flu

The Irish National Teachers Organisation has met with officials from the Department of Education today in order to discuss swine flu.

Both the Irish National Teachers Organisation and the Association of Secondary Teachers of Ireland have agreed that schools should reopen as normal after the summer break, despite swine flu concerns.

The ASTI said that schools and teachers should be guided by current medical advice, particularly about hygiene.

Earlier on Wednesday, INTO's General Secretary John Carr has expressed concerns about hygiene facilities in schools, such as the provision of hot water for hand-washing.

He also said that the organisation hoped that teachers would be given priority for the flu vaccine when the vaccination programme begins.

Meanwhile, the National Association of Principals and Deputy Principals have voiced concerns about potential staff shortages which could be caused by swine flu.

The association is calling for clarification on teachers' sick leave entitlements.

All primary schools are due to open as normal in the next few weeks. A letter will be sent to all schools providing advice on helping to prevent the spread of flu and what should be done if a student develops flu-like symptoms.

Schools and college are to remain open unless advised to close by the local HSE as a precautionary measure.

Two people in Ireland have died from swine flu so far.

(KMcA/BMcC)

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