As Hurricane Ophelia continues to rage across the country, it has been confirmed that schools will remain closed tomorrow.
The announcement was made this evening by Minister for Education Richard Bruton.
He said that the decision was made following ‘careful consideration’ by the National Emergency Coordination Group with the Department of Education.
“This decision was primarily taken in the interests of child safety and on the basis of information available in what is a developing situation,” wrote Minister Bruton, on Twitter.
Following careful consideration by the National Emergency Coordination Group, the Department of Education and Skills, has decided that all schools will remain closed tomorrow #Ophelia
— Richard Bruton (@RichardbrutonTD) October 16, 2017
This decision was primarily taken in the interests of child safety and on the basis of information available in what is a developing situation #Ophelia
— Richard Bruton (@RichardbrutonTD) October 16, 2017
While it is recognised that some schools may not be as badly impacted as others, the information available at this time indicates that over 350,000 businesses & homes already without power, severe winds continue to cause damage across the country as the storm progresses. #Ophelia
— Richard Bruton (@RichardbrutonTD) October 16, 2017
It is also the case that school authorities will in very many cases not have had an opportunity to check their buildings and confirm they are safe, have power and water, and that routes to the school are safely open #Ophelia
— Richard Bruton (@RichardbrutonTD) October 16, 2017
“While it is recognised that some schools may not be as badly impacted as others, the information available at this time indicates that over 350,000 businesses and homes [are] already without power. Severe winds continue to cause damage across the country as the storm progresses.
“It is also the case that school authorities will, in very many cases, not have had an opportunity to check their buildings and confirm they are safe, have power and water, and that routes to the school are safely open.”
The news follows devastating reports that there have been two fatalities in Ireland, as a result of the storm.
Stay safe out there, mums.
