Hon JAN TINETTI: Schools implement their own mask-wearing policy, reflective of the current case rates in the school and community, and I am confident in their ability to do so. The ministries of health and education provided advice that mandating mask use is not necessary at this time, but it has strongly encouraged as much use as possible. We understand that mask wearing poses implementation challenges for schools—for example, younger children and students with learning support needs are unlikely to be able to comply with the mask mandate. There are also situations in schools where mask wearing might not be practicable, where it will have a significant impact on teaching and learning. We recognise that schools are best placed for managing mask requirements flexibility, to retain an appropriate balance of safety and minimise disruption to students' learning. Schools have this, and I back them.