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17/10/2017
All Schools And Colleges To Remain Closed
The Department of Education has confirmed that all schools and colleges are to remain closed on Tuesday, 16 October, due to Storm Ophelia.
The latest advice follows a meeting of the Civil Contingencies Group at which all central, local and public sector organisations are represented.
Derek Baker, Permanent Secretary, said: "I fully appreciate this decision will impact on the work of the schools and indeed on other businesses and services but the decision has been taken to avoid any potential risk to life for children and young people as well as staff."
Sinn Féin Education Spokesperson Karen Mullan said: "Although the weather is expected to have improved by then, there is a concern that power shortages and potential damage to buildings and transport networks could impact on accessibility and safety.
"In those circumstances it is sensible to be cautious and to take the decision as early as possible to allow parents to make necessary arrangements."
(CD/JP)
The latest advice follows a meeting of the Civil Contingencies Group at which all central, local and public sector organisations are represented.
Derek Baker, Permanent Secretary, said: "I fully appreciate this decision will impact on the work of the schools and indeed on other businesses and services but the decision has been taken to avoid any potential risk to life for children and young people as well as staff."
Sinn Féin Education Spokesperson Karen Mullan said: "Although the weather is expected to have improved by then, there is a concern that power shortages and potential damage to buildings and transport networks could impact on accessibility and safety.
"In those circumstances it is sensible to be cautious and to take the decision as early as possible to allow parents to make necessary arrangements."
(CD/JP)
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Northern Ireland WeatherThis Evening and Tonight:Dry in the southeast at first otherwise widespread light rain or drizzle for most. It will turn mostly dry towards dawn, although a few patches of light rain or drizzle continuing, mainly in the southwest. Minimum temperature 5 °C.
