All primary school children and fifth year students are heading back to school today

Sinn Fein's Education spokesperson Donnchadh O'Laoghaire says it's a very significant day for families up and down the country.

The Cork TD says being in class is better for pupils: "In school is the best way to learn, there's no doubt about it. And I want to pay tribute to the school staff to the families who have made this happen, but what we must now ensure is that schools stay open. We can't take that for granted, we need to ensure that the necessary safety measures are put in place."