Childcare Providers Raise Concerns About Cessation Of Close Contacts In These Settings.

Thursday, 23 September 2021 09:18

There were 90 new outbreaks in schools last week, up 50 on the previous week.

Childcare providers are warning the decision to allow asymptomatic children who are close contacts remain in creches will result in increased closures this winter.

Yesterday it was announced under 12s who attend primary schools or childcare facilities and have no symptoms won't have to restrict movements from Monday.

“From Monday 27 September, we will change how we manage COVID-19 in our schools. Contact tracing of close contacts in childcare facilities and primary education and testing of asymptomatic close contacts in childcare facilities and primary education will no longer be necessary.
— Department of Health (@roinnslainte) September 22, 2021

The Chief Medical Officer says, given the importance of education, now is the right time to make the change as the data shows the facilities are low risk.

There were 90 new outbreaks in schools last week - up 50 on the previous week, while the number in childcare facilities fell from 22 to nine over the same period.

Chairperson of the Federation of Early Childhood Providers, Elaine Dunne, says they're "shocked" and "disappointed" at the decision:

Elaine Dunne, says they're seriously concerned

“Public health advice remains that any person, including children aged 12 yrs or under who displays symptoms consistent with COVID-19 should rapidly self-isolate and not attend school or to socialise until 48 hours after they are symptom free.”@CMOIreland
— Department of Health (@roinnslainte) September 22, 2021

Thousands of children have been missing school up until now as they have been deemed close contacts.

Labour’s Education spokesperson Aodhán Ó Ríordáin says this had to change

More from National News

Sharp Rise In M9 Collisions With Garda Call-Outs Up Year-On-Year

The figures, provided by An Garda Síochána, show a sharp increase compared to previous years.
Councillor Seeks Clarity On How Often Nightclubs and Late Bars In Naas Are Inspected For Fire Risks

Kildare Fire Service says all venues applying to renew their annual dance licence through the District Court were inspected in advance of the hearings.
New Figures From CSO Reveal How Much International Protection Applicants Earn Compared To Average Worker In Ireland

The data also found that a majority of asylum seekers entered the workforce once permitted to do so
Unpaid Eight-Month Work And Training Placement For Adults With Disabilities Branded "Extremely Unfair"

One Kildare mother told Kfm News that their child had been attending structured placements each weekday, typically from around 9:30am to 3pm, and in some cases carrying out tasks for up to two hours at a time - but are not receiving any form of payment.
Department Of Education Defends Kildare SNA Cuts Amid Claims Of Reduced Need At Some Schools

They said there "are many reasons why the level of need for SNA support in schools may fluctuate including falling enrolments, reduced or increased care needs and changing demographics as children move from primary to post-primary schools".
Naas Nurses Threaten Escalation As Staffing Row Deepens

Nurses spoke to Kfm News this week about issues they are dealing with on a daily basis.
Driving Tests Face Disruption As RSA Testers To Strike Next Week

The driving test centre in Naas is the only driving test centre in Kildare and attracts candidates from Kildare, Dublin, Wicklow and Laois.
Jury Delivers Not Guilty By Reason Of Insanity Verdict In Ballyfin Demesne Strangling Case

31-year-old Henry McGowan, from Brooklyn, New York, was found to be having a psychotic episode when he strangled his father to death at the 5-star hotel.