“WHY STOP AT TESTING?” – MORE CAN BE DONE TO KEEP SCHOOLS SAFE

Plaid Cymru calls again for teachers to be top of their vaccine priority group, and for adequate ventilation in schools

Responding to the news that pupils aged three to seven would be back at school from 22 February, and that teachers will be tested twice a week, Plaid Cymru’s Shadow Minister for Education, Siân Gwenllian MS said,

“Why stop at testing teachers? It’s an important step in keeping our schools safe, but there is more that could be done to help reassure parents, teachers and learners that learning environments are as safe as they can be. 

“Labour Welsh Government again said they wouldn’t move teachers ahead of other priority groups for the vaccination, but haven’t answered our call to move them to the front of the list within their priority group. All key workers, including school workers, should be given the earliest opportunity to receive the vaccine.

“Plaid Cymru has long been calling for more to be done to ensure school environments are adequately ventilated. This includes clear guidance on effective solutions and targeted funding so that schools can employ the necessary measures quickly. The Welsh Government must also make a clear case to ensure learners and school staff aren’t prevented from wearing appropriate warm clothing in addition to any uniform. If children are fully prepared for cooler temperatures, then outdoor learning also becomes a possibility.”