Belfast school says pupil tested positive for Covid-19

St Dominic’s Grammar School for Girls in west Belfast has confirmed that one of their pupils has tested positive for coronavirus.

The school, on the Falls Road, has been closed and a plan is in place to have a deep clean carried out.

In a statement posted on social media, principal Carol McCann said: “We have made the decision to have staff days on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Pupils do not attend.

“We are waiting further guidance from DE, EA and Examination Boards.

“Apologies for any inconvenience this may cause.”

Debate has been ongoing in Northern Ireland over the decision by the government not to close schools, contrary to the action taken in the Republic of Ireland.

A Belfast law firm is to take a case on behalf of a family in Co Armagh.

However, on Monday, Education Minister Peter Weir said: “I want to make clear that any decision to close schools and other educational settings will be backed up by expert, clear and unambiguous advice and guidance provided to me by the Chief Medical Officer, the Public Health Agency and the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies.

“This is not a step that I will take lightly or without careful consideration of the significant consequences.”

Minister Weir added: “I understand the implications that school closures would have on a large number of parents being removed from their current jobs and instead staying at home to look after their children.

“Some of these will be doctors, nurses, police officers, paramedics and fire fighters - the very people we need at this key moment in time to complete critical contingency planning for the weeks and months ahead.”

It is understood many parents have taken the decision to keep their children off school anyway, while some schools have also decided to close as a precaution.

Coronavirus: Everything you need to know