Coronavirus: Backlash after Sinn Fein ‘solo run’ on school closure strategy

Yesterday, the Sinn Fein deputy leader announced that her party was responding to the “angst that is there amongst the wider public” – less than 24 hours after backing the NI Executive’s decision to delay a widespread shutdown.

The previous day she had said: “We have listened to medical evidence yesterday from the chief medical officer” and that “we haven’t come to that stage yet, in terms of cancelling things”.

However, during a surprise press conference on Friday, she said: “On the back of the angst that is there amongst the wider public, now is the time to take action.

“Now is time to ensure that all schools are closed – that universities and colleges are closed, and that needs to happen immediately.”

The policy U-turn means Sinn Fein are now backing the approach being taken in the Republic of Ireland.

Mr Aiken accused the Sinn Fein MLA of “ignoring medical and scientific advice”.

He said: “Michelle O’Neill’s U-turn on a united executive response to dealing with coronavirus is shameful and utterly reckless.

“Sinn Fein have created more fear and uncertainty. They are playing party politics with health and that is utterly reprehensible.”

Mr Aiken said the Sinn Fein stance “could make a bad situation far worse,” and added: “People should ignore Sinn Fein and follow the advice of professionals. The closure of schools at this stage could be counterproductive in the fight against coronavirus. There is no doubt schools will close at some stage, but the timing of those closures should be guided by the medical and scientific experts, not by Sinn Fein politicians seeking to politicise public health.”

In a statement, Ms O’Neill said: “I have spoken to educationalists, sporting organisation and churches who have all taken precautionary action in the interest of people’s health.

“People are rightly concerned about the impacts on their families and their children and as a parent, I share those concerns and I have been contacted by many parents who did not send their children to school this morning.”

She added: “To protect the public, schools and colleges should now be closed. There has been contradictory medical evidence and in that context my view is that we should err on the side of caution.”