Some students likely to return to the classroom from March 1

Concerns were also raised about the prevalence of the UK variant of Covid-19 in the community

Leaving Certificate and infant classes will likely be the first to return to schhol, with other classes returning in phases thereafter. Picture: Stock image

The Taoiseach has told his party that the likely date for the phased reopening of schools is March 1.

This date will be regularly evaluated to assess the impact on prevalence in the community so the 1m school-age students will not be returning at one time.