Masks Will Negatively Impact Education Of Children With Autism Says Ennis Mother

An Ennis mother says the mandatory wearing of masks in secondary schools will negatively impact the education of her daughter and others with autism.

Rachel Culligan’s daughter Charlotte will begin secondary school in the next number of weeks, and relies on seeing people’s faces and expressions to be able to communicate.

Guidelines from the Department of Education require second level pupils and teachers to wear face coverings when a physical distance of two metres cannot be maintained.

Rachel says she has been in contact with other parents across Clare who share similar concerns.

The Ennis mum doesn’t see how teachers can effectively educate her daughter and others like her while wearing a mask.