Some schools may be forced to close this winter as a result of ventilation and heating problems, a trade union is expected to warn when it addresses politicians at an Oireachtas committee hearing later this morning.
Representatives from four trade unions representing teachers and other school workers are due before the Joint Committee on Education to discuss the safe running of schools under Covid-19.
All three teacher unions have expressed concern, in submissions sent in advance to committee members, around the ability of schools to keep classrooms both well ventilated and warm over the coming months.
Studies have shown that good air circulation is vital in preventing the build-up of airborne particles of the Covid-19 virus indoors.