Face masks not required in post-primary classes in Northern Ireland from March 21 –

From March 21, primary school students will no longer have to wear masks in their classrooms.

Education Secretary Michelle McIlvin has issued a written statement to the Northern Ireland Assembly about the use of face coverings in the classroom by post-primary students.

However, a face covering is recommended for use in corridors, public places, public and school transportation.

Realizing that the use of face masks has been beneficial in reducing the number of positive Covid cases in schools, the education minister admitted that they “hampered learning by making communication with teachers and peers difficult”.

In a statement, Mrs. McKelvin continued: “One of the most significant aspects of the delay in the last year was that after graduating from elementary school, students were asked to cover their faces for most of the day at school. I don’t understand how difficult it is. Being for the sake of these young people, I want to thank them and acknowledge what they have shown.” Who is willing and flexible.

“Many young people will find it uncomfortable to wear a mask for a long time. That is why I have always been clear that I want to remove the requirement to wear a face mask in the classroom as soon as possible.

“I have always made sure that mitigation measures in schools are based on public health advice and the prevailing situation in the field of public health. I would like to continue on this topic and officials and I have regularly worked with the Minister of Health and the Minister of Health. Their officials.”

The minister added that the number of cases among students was particularly high in January and February, but showed a “sustainable decline” and is now less than 30% of cases, according to the Weekly Epidemiology School of the Public School of Epidemiology. bulletin.

“I realized the need to weigh the impact of wearing a face mask in the classroom on virus transmission with the challenges that wearing face masks over a long period of time has brought to our youth and the delays it has caused,” said Minister McAlvin, “Education.”

“As a result of my review of this guide, effective March 21, the recommendation to wear masks by elementary school students in classrooms will be removed from my department. However, at this point they are recommended for use in hallways, in common areas. Public areas, schools, and transportation, but will not They are recommended in the classroom.

“I have tried to provide our youth, parents and schools with enough information on this to allow any training.”

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