The majority of schools across Northern Ireland have reopened today, Monday 27 January, following their closure on Friday due to Storm Éowyn.

Following the storm, the Education Authority's Maintenance Helpline received 154 reports of damage to school buildings, ranging in severity from missing roof tiles, fallen trees and serious structural damage. Maintenance teams worked throughout the weekend to carry out essential repairs and assess each school's ability to reopen.

Education Minister Paul Givan, said: "The latest information indicates that only a small number of schools will be closed on Monday due to damage caused by the storm and the majority of these we hope will be able to open on Tuesday. The Education Authority has been engaging with principals and are working to put contingency arrangements in place."

Addressing the impact of the damage to the electricity network, the Education Minister continued: "Unfortunately there has been extensive damage to the electricity network across Northern Ireland. Currently, NIE Networks estimate that there are approximately 80 schools without power, however this number is continually fluctuating.

"We are working closely with NIE and they have confirmed that they will, where possible, prioritise schools that currently have no power.

"As the situation is evolving, decisions are being taken by schools at a local level. I would therefore ask parents to stay in close contact with their school, as they will be communicating the latest position and advice via their usual channels."

An online information session was held for schools on Sunday evening to provide an update on the current situation and over 280 principals attended.

Paul Givan continued: "This has been a challenging weekend for school leaders and I want to place on record my thanks for their considerable efforts, as we work together to ensure schools reopen as quickly as possible

"It is important that wherever possible, when a school is closed, children engage in remote learning to minimise disruption to their education. Schools have been asked to make every effort to deploy remote learning. If families do not have online access, children can complete any outstanding homework, coursework or work that was sent home last week.

"Schools will understand if children are unable to complete work that is set online if pupils do not have electricity or internet access. We also understand it is very disruptive for families and for children to be off school and many parents will need to work and will be relying on the support of family or friends."

EA's Transport Service plans to operate as normal on Monday. However, there may be some disruption or delays to routes as a result of damage to infrastructure.