Updated guidelines on face masks in schools will be published “shortly,” according to the Department of Education.

The Government’s current plan for reopening notes that face masks are not suitable for primary level students and should be optional at secondary level.

However, teachers’ unions have called for a review, warning that the plan was based on advice published in June.

Meanwhile, the former Chief Executive of the HSE, Tony O’Brien has accused the Government of “dithering” on the issue – insisting there is a ‘clear-cut cases’ for masks in secondary schools.

In a statement this morning, the Department of Education said it is considering new advice on face coverings from the Health Protection Surveillance Centre.

“Revised recommendations on face coverings is being considered by the Department today and will be published shortly following an engagement with key stakeholders in the school sector,” it said.

It said any changes to the advice will be reflected in updated guidelines for schools and said it said it is satisfied schools will be capable of catering for the changes in the weeks running up to their return.

The Department is also preparing to issue updated guidelines on PPE suppliers and cleaning materials.