As you will be aware, the TUI made strong representation to the Department of Education both before and after Christmas in relation to the provision of FFP2 masks. The Department has this week issued correspondence confirming that schools may use their COVID-19 capitation funding to provide such masks. It has also provided a list of suppliers and product codes.
However, this will only be of value to school staff if the procurement process is fit for purpose and does not add to the already significant administrative workload in schools.
We will continue to raise these and other arising issues related to the safe operation of schools in our engagements with the Department of Education and public health representatives.