Government confirms no plans to introduce National School Uniform Policy- McGrath
In response to a Parliamentary Question from Tipperary TD Mattie McGrath, the government has confirmed that they have no plans to introduce a national policy in relation to the wearing of school uniforms and that it is a matter for individual schools.
Deputy McGrath had questioned the Minister for Education after concerns were raised with him in relation to media reports that schools would be scrapping their school uniforms as part of infection control measures related to Covid 19, however, the Minister has confirmed that while the Public Health advice contains important measures required for infection prevention and control, it does not include specific advice on the wearing of uniforms. Individual school authorities are responsible for the drawing up of a school policy in relation to the wearing of school uniforms.
“I have been contacted by many parents who have already purchased school uniforms who became concerned following media reports that school uniforms would be banned. I am pleased that the Minister has confirmed that this is not the case and that Public Health advice makes no extra requirements in relation to the wearing of uniforms.
This is a matter for each school and I would call on all schools to make their policy known for the coming year, if they have not already done so.” Said Deputy McGrath
“There is so much confusion already relating to the re-opening of schools and parents are growing increasingly concerned and frustrated at the lack of clarity so concerns over whether or not uniforms can be worn should be one less thing they have to worry about.
Return to school is a very expensive time for parents and the added stress of whether or not students would be required to purchase extra uniforms or have no uniforms at all was definitely a concern that we have been getting a lot.” Continued McGrath
Deputy McGrath has also called on the Minister for Education to immediately clarify the plans for the return to school.
“I have been inundated with calls and messages from concerned parents about the re-opening of schools and colleges and there is so many questions left unanswered. Will they be in school full time, what is the position surrounding school transport, what is the position with third level education and accommodation and so on and parents need clarity urgently.
“The Minister is due to answer questions in the Dáil next week so I hope that clarity will be provided then because parents need answers to plan ahead.” Concluded McGrath
Parliamentary Question
For Written Answer on : 21/07/2020
Question Number(s): 399 Question Reference(s): 16959/20
Department: Education and Skills
Asked by: Mattie McGrath T.D.
______________________________________________
QUESTION
To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the position in relation to school uniforms in view of the fact parents are in the process of purchasing uniforms and in further view of reports that schools will have no uniforms for infection control reasons; and if she will make a statement on the matter.
REPLY
The interim public health advice received by my Department sets out the key public health requirements that will be required for a safe full reopening of schools in late August/ September and the measures that will be required to achieve this.
This public health advice will underpin ongoing engagements with education partners and stakeholders in terms of planning and providing guidance for schools in relation to logistical, curricular and wellbeing arrangements. The advice also contains important measures required for infection prevention and control and does not include specific advice on the wearing of uniforms. Individual school authorities are responsible for the drawing up of a school policy in relation to the wearing of school uniforms.
The Department recommends that the formulation of such a school policy should allow for prior consultation with teachers, parents and pupils where appropriate and enable any concerns to be raised and considered.
