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Belfast Live
Belfast Live
National
Kirstie McCrum

St Comgall's Primary school in Bangor sends home 300 pupils in two-week coronavirus closure

A Bangor primary school has closed for two weeks after two coronavirus cases were reportedly confirmed.

St Comgall's PS is the first primary school to close in the country, and has sent home 300 children for what's thought to be the longest period since schools went back.

The Co Down school contacted parents to reassure them following what is believed to be two positive tests for Covid-19.

Principal Cathy Hunter said children did not need to self-isolate, and added: "Please reassure your child that all is well.

"I sincerely apologise for the inconvenience caused but know that you will want to support this decision in order to return our school community safely as soon as we can."

The school is reportedly hoping it can restart on October 12.

Councillor Barry McKee for Bangor West (Green Party) said: “The advice from the school is not to panic which I believe to be good advice.

"I have confidence that the school is prioritising public health and working with the Public Health Agency to make decisions based on the health and safety of the entire school community.

“I would offer my best wishes to parents, school staff and children during these times.

"I would encourage our children to continue their studies as best they can from home, with the support of their teachers.

“I would also encourage local employers to be as flexible as possible with parents who will be affected by the closure of the school.”

Other schools have previously sent home students individually or even in year groups following positive test results.

Holy Cross College, Strabane and Malone College, Belfast, both closed for a short period after positive cases were identified last week.

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