BREAKING - ALL SCHOOLS CLOSED ON TUESDAY AS OPHELIA RAGES ON

The Department of Education has confirmed that all schools in Ireland will remain closed on Tuesday, October 17 due to Hurricane Ophelia.

All schools are to remain closed tomorrow Tuesday October 17th.

— education.ie (@Education_Ire) October 16, 2017

It is understood the decision was made at the National Emergency Coordination Group meeting on Monday afternoon.

It has been reported that only primary and secondary schools are included in this closure.

A statement from the Department of Education:

"Following careful consideration by the National Emergency Coordination Group, the Department of Education and Skills, has decided that all schools will remain closed tomorrow (Tuesday, October 17).

"This decision was primarily taken in the interests of child safety and on the basis of information available in what is a developing situation. 

"While it is recognised that some schools may not be as badly impacted as others, the information available at this time indicates that over 350,000 businesses and homes are already without power, and severe winds continue to cause damage across the country as the storm progresses. Many regional and local roads are closed due to fallen trees.

"It is also the case that school authorities will in very many cases not have had an opportunity to check their buildings and confirm they are safe, have power and water, and that routes to the school are safely open.

"It is recognised that the decision to close schools will have a major impact on families and on the workforce. However, this decision has been taken in the interests of safety for children and to provide clarity for everyone concerned."

As per instructions from Dept of Education and Skills, all LOETB Schools and FET Centres will remain closed tomorrow (Tuesday)

— Laois and Offaly ETB (@laoisoffalyetb) October 16, 2017