Thousands of teachers set to be absent as schools return

The Teachers’ Union of Ireland (TUI) has criticised the department’s delay in implementing safety measures in schools.

Thousands of teachers are expected to be absent from schools as they reopen on Thursday due to soaring Covid-19 cases.

Teaching unions and parents' lobbies had all raised concerns about student and staff safety in the classroom, but public health officials cleared the way for the return to school earlier this week.