The Irish National Teachers' Organisation has said it will be necessary to reduce the number of children attending at one time in almost all schools, given the current guidance around physical distancing.
In its submission to the Department to Education on reopening schools, it warns that this will pose what it said are "huge operational challenges" for schools and clear communication with parents will be necessary.
The organisation has outlined its contingency planning arrangements and key issues of concern for primary and special schools for this school year.
It said there is a clear acknowledgement that it is not possible to observe physical distancing in a primary or special school setting, as it is in shops or other workplaces -