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Belfast Live
Belfast Live
National
Orlaith Clinton

MLA starts Assembly recall petition over 'lack of clear Covid guidance for schools'

Sinn Féin MLA Pat Sheehan has called for the Assembly recalled over the "lack of clear Covid 19 guidance for schools".

The calls come amid a growing number of pupil absences across Northern Ireland due to positive cases of the virus.

The West Belfast MLA and party Education spokesperson said: “Principals and school staff have been highlighting the lack of clear guidance for schools amid rising positive Covid 19 cases in our classrooms."

He continued: “The Education Minister needs to give clear guidance and put in place the necessary resources to support our school staff in keeping schools open.

“I have initiated a recall petition to ensure that the Education Minister comes to the Assembly and sets out exactly what the Department of Education will do to support schools.

“Schools have been clear on the need for department staff to help with contact tracing and better access to the Covid 19 helplines.

“Keeping our schools open and ensuring the safety of pupils and staff must be a priority.”

MLAs are not due back until next Monday, however, 30 signatures on Mr Sheehan's petition would trigger the recall.

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