Question to the Northern Ireland Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, whether he has taken steps to help secure financial support for (a) schools and (b) pupils and their families in Northern Ireland who face losing money for cancelled school trips as a result of the covid-19 outbreak.

On 17 March, the FCO advised against all non-essential international travel and on 4 April confirmed that this UK-wide advice would stay in place until further notice. Travel restrictions and social distancing measures remain in place across the UK.

The question of changes, cancellation and refunds for school trip bookings affected by these restrictions is a matter for schools to discuss with their tour operator, airline, transport/accommodation provider and insurance company (as applicable). They are best placed to advise on the options available to them.

Education is a devolved matter and the Department of Education and the Education Authority in Northern Ireland continue to provide guidance and support to schools.