NI school closes ‘at very short notice’ after two further confirmed COVID-19 cases

A post on Holy Cross College in Strabane, Co Tyrone said: “Unfortunately the school has had to close at very short notice this morning due to two further confirmed cases in the school community”.

On Facebook Holy Cross College is described as a “co-ed bilateral school in Strabane, Co. Tyrone with over 1500 pupils”.

On Sunday, the school said two members of the school community had tested positive for coronavirus. A deep clean was undertaken in response.

A post on Facebook on Sunday from the school said: “20/09/2020 Dear Parent, Member of Staff, Student

“I wish to inform you that two members of Holy Cross community have tested positive for Covid-19.

“After consultation with PHA close contacts have been informed and advised to self-isolate for fourteen days.

“In order to carry out an extra layer of cleaning of the building, staff and students should arrive at 11am tomorrow Monday 21st Sept. Classes will begin at 11.15am.

“I am sorry for this inconvenience but I am sure you will understand that this is a very uncertain time for all of us and I assure you we are doing everything we can to continue to operate Holy Cross College as safely as we can for everyone, in line with PHA guidance.

“It is important that we remain calm and work together.

Yours sincerely

C Bradley”

But this morning (Wednesday), the school said a further two cases had been confirmed.

In a Facebook post, the college said: “Unfortunately the school has had to close at very short notice this morning due to two further confirmed cases in the school community.”

This morning Sinn Féin MP Órfhlaith Begley said the closure of Holy Cross College in Strabane as a result of COVID-19 infections highlights the need for everyone to be vigilant and follow the public health advice.

The West Tyrone MP said: “The closure of Holy Cross College in Strabane as a result of COVID-19 will no doubt cause concern among many parents.

“The decision was taken as a precaution for the safety of pupils, school staff and the wider community as a result of rising infection rates.

“This reinforces the need for people to adhere to the call from Michelle O’Neill last night that this is a crucial time and that everyone must play their part in helping to stop the spread of the virus by following the public health advice and regulations.

“I know this wasn’t an easy decision for the school to take and the safety of pupils and staff is paramount.”

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