Church schools are encouraging the use of masks, the Curia said in a statement.

Earlier today, the Public Health Authorities published the updated Covid-19 Guidelines for the education sector. The guidelines mean that masks will no longer be mandatory in schools as of Monday 25 April.

In a statement, the Curia said that these guidelines point out that "evidence to date still shows that wearing a mask is an effective means of preventing viral spread," the Curia said in a statement. "The guidelines also state that each school should adapt these guidelines according to the specific setup of the school itself and in line with any other guidelines as issued from time to time by the Public Health Authorities".

In view of this, Church schools that consider the use of masks as necessary for the well-being of their community and their sustained operation will be notifying parents and staff members accordingly. Students and staff in all Church schools are encouraged to wear a mask as provided for in the guidelines. The guidelines still mandate masks on school transport.