Nicola Sturgeon has moved to reassure parents by insisting the Scottish Government is not considering closing schools to combat Omicron.
The First Minister made her comments on the eve of a parliamentary statement in which she is expected to announce new restrictions.
Sturgeon last week warned of a potential “tsunami” of cases of the new variant - an outcome that could overwhelm the NHS.
Her government intends to ramp up the booster programme and is considering new restrictions, but talking to BBC Drivetime she appeared to rule out schools closing early ahead of Christmas.
“We're not considering closing schools. I've tried to be really candid with people all along, that any leader that stands and says '100% anything can be ruled out forever' is not been straight with you.
“But we're not considering the closure of schools. Children have suffered more than any, and everybody has suffered in this, but children have suffered disproportionately.”
Sturgeon’s Cabinet will sign off any new restrictions tomorrow before announcing her plans to Holyrood.
She will also give a televised address which is expected in the evening.
The First Minister appeared to contradict her Health Secretary Humza Yousaf, who earlier today was asked if the Government could close schools on Friday instead of on Wednesday next week.
He replied: "Government undoubtedly will consider that.
"There is actually, as we know, not just educational disruption potentially we know the effect that lockdowns, that previous restrictions and preventative and protective measures had on our young people's mental health.
"So that is something we have to consider of course what we need to do in relation to public health.
"So these matters are being considered by Cabinet. The First Minister will give that update tomorrow but we will do everything we possibly can to keep schools open."
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