In light of the current health conditions, after discussions with several professionals from both the Education and Health sectors, but above all with numerous parents, I am asking Christian Estrosi to abandon the reopening of schools in Nice on May 11th.
Both the National Council of the Medical Association and the Scientific Council have issued negative opinions on the government’s reopening plan, considering that the risks of contamination for children and their families are too high. Furthermore, an alert has been raised regarding cases of cardiac pathologies in children, potentially associated with COVID-19 contamination. The principle of precaution, and in this case even protection, therefore dictates utmost caution.
The risks of contamination, whether through proximity in schools, but also through transport or during entry and exit, are today far too significant to calmly consider this resumption.
For weeks now, teachers have been fulfilling their duties remotely, with creativity and dedication. I believe it wise to continue in this direction. Aware of the necessity for a gradual resumption of work, I am also asking the municipality to expand the current daycare service by maintaining it for the children of healthcare workers, of course, and extending it to employees who cannot work remotely or take care of their children within the family circle.
Beyond the direct health risk, a wave of contamination caused by the reopening of schools could further delay the real lifting of confinement measures and the resumption of economic and tourist activities in our city. Many businesses are already in dire situations; we cannot afford this.
Philippe Vardon
Vice President of the RN group at the Regional Council of Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, candidate for the Mayorship of Nice.
