Western Isles MSP welcomes the end of shielding and the return of schools

Alasdair Allan MSP said: “The pause in shielding advice from 1 August for members in high risks categories marks an important step in the route-map out of lockdown and represents a huge relief to us all.

“From 11th August, schools will reopen. Along with this announcement, a further £30m was announced to support councils with cleaning, facilities management, school transport and other practical issues that are vital in ensuring a safe return to school.

“The Scottish Government has also provided £75m towards teacher recruitment to ensure increased resilience during the reopening.

“I echo the First Minister’s calls for caution – we have seen how quickly outbreaks have occurred in other parts of the world. In the transition to the ‘new normal’, we must adhere closely to public health guidance to ensure that this virus continues to be supressed.”

The Scottish Government is currently working with COSLA to determine how the funding will be allocated to individual councils.