The majority of schools will reopen on Monday: Givan

Date published: 26 January 2025

Paul Givan said: “Work has continued today to support schools impacted by Storm Éowyn to reopen as soon as possible.

“The Education Authority’s Maintenance Helpline has been operational throughout the weekend.  It received 154 reports of damage to school buildings, ranging in severity from missing roof tiles, fallen trees and serious structural damage.

“The safety of children and staff is paramount. Maintenance teams have been out on the ground today undertaking essential repairs and assessing whether it is safe to reopen.

“The latest information indicates that only a small number of schools will be closed on Monday due to damage caused by the storm and the majority of these we hope will be able to open on Tuesday. The Education Authority has been engaging with principals and are working to put contingency arrangements in place.”

Turning to the impact of the damage to the electricity network, the Education Minister continued: “Unfortunately there has been extensive damage to the electricity network across Northern Ireland. Currently, NIE Networks estimate that there are approximately 80 schools without power, however this number is continually fluctuating.

“We are working closely with NIE and they have confirmed that they will, where possible, prioritise schools that currently have no power.

“As the situation is evolving, decisions are being taken by schools at a local level. I would therefore ask parents to stay in close contact with their school, as they will be communicating the latest position and advice via their usual channels.”

An online information session was held for schools on Sunday evening to provide an update on the current situation and over 280 principals attended.

Paul Givan continued: “This has been a challenging weekend for school leaders and I want to place on record my thanks for their considerable efforts, as we work together to ensure schools reopen as quickly as possible

“It is important that wherever possible, when a school is closed, children engage in remote learning to minimise disruption to their education. Schools have been asked to make every effort to deploy remote learning. If families do not have online access, children can complete any outstanding homework, coursework or work that was sent home last week.

“Schools will understand if children are unable to complete work that is set online if pupils do not have electricity or internet access. We also understand it is very disruptive for families and for children to be off school and many parents will need to work and will be relying on the support of family or friends.”

EA’s Transport Service plans to operate as normal on Monday. However, there may be some disruption or delays to routes as a result of damage to infrastructure.

If you have any queries you should contact the Transport Helpline on Tel: 028 9598 5959 (Monday to Friday, 9:00am - 4:30pm)

There may also be some impact to school meals in a number of schools as a result of power outages from Friday. Schools will inform parents/carers directly of any alternative arrangements.