TD Mattie McGrath has presented a petition from over 14,000 parents and grandparents calling for the face masks in classrooms rule to be scrapped.
Mr McGrath said we should “let the children smile” again in our schools.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin said the motivation behind the rule is “an honourable one” that was agreed with all the stakeholders in education.
The call in the Dáil comes as the medical chiefs of NPHET prepare to meet tomorrow afternoon to consider ending the requirement to mask-up in schools.
They will also be looking at the wider rule to wear masks in other public places, including on public transport and in shops.
There is support, and hopeful expectation, in Government circles that one of the last remaining restrictions of lockdown could be dropped on advice from NPHET.
Mr McGrath told the Dáil on Wednesday afternoon: “I have a petition signed by 14,300 ordinary parents and grandparents, which I intend to hand to the Taoiseach, pleading to take away the masks from these people.
“Let the children smile.
“Let them see the expressions on the teacher's and each other's friends and siblings' faces. “Nightclubs, bars and every place has them gone and we have them in schools - it is punitive. “I would say it is a form of child abuse, actually, and it is time it was dispensed with.
“The Taoiseach has been talking about the effects of Covid-19 and the impact on health since he came in.
“What impact is this going to have?
“Voluntary boards and management could end up being sued.
“I salute the boards of management in all the schools.
“I was a member of one myself.
“They do great work as do the teaching staff.
“It is time to get rid of this draconian measure, which is causing strife, ill health, stress and torment to children, parents, grandparents and communities.”
The Taoiseach responded: “The motivation behind the recommendation and the public health advice with regard to masks was an honourable one to try to protect children and teachers.
“This was in consultation with all the stakeholders in education.
“There will be a meeting of the National Public Health Emergency Team, NPHET, and there will be advice in relation to this.”
Minister for Education, Norma Foley, was asked about the issue at a press briefing to announce the launch of a new study on bullying in schools.
But Ms Foley was tightlipped and would not give any commitments ahead of NPHET’s advice.
She said: “I would have to say that we have always followed public health advice.
“And that public health advice has served us well in our schools.
“NPHET will be meeting, they will be giving consideration to our schools and indeed to other measures in wider society as well and we await that.”
