As public concerns about the spread of the coronavirus (Covid-19) increase, school heads and public authorities face difficult decisions regarding the most appropriate course of action.

I am concerned about school closure decisions being hastily made without due consideration of their impact on the education of our children as well as the pastoral care and assistance they receive at school.

I understand that certain families may choose to withdraw their children from school and educate them at home during this outbreak if some of their members are vulnerable, but this choice should not infringe on the rights of others.

Every child has a right to an education, and every family should have the freedom to keep their children at school.

I urge the government to keep all schools open during this difficult period.