Legault Says Reopening Quebec Schools Is A 'Calculated Risk' He's Willing To Take

Speaking at a press conference on Monday afternoon, Premier François Legault said reopening Quebec schools is a "calculated risk" that he's willing to take. 

"I'm not going to pretend that there isn't a risk," admitted the premier, "but it's a calculated risk." 

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I assume this risk.

Premier François Legault

Legault said that despite the risk, there are several "inconvenient" consequences if kids don't return to school. 

First, he suggested that students could fall further behind.

"They've already missed a lot of time in the spring [...] and on Friday, the Education Minister spoke about measures put in place to catch up [..] and we're going to do everything we can to make sure they succeed."

The premier also mentioned the social aspect of not being in school, insisting that it's important for kids to see their friends. 

"I think there are more disadvantages than advantages to keeping kids at home," Legault said, underlining the importance of not allowing schoolchildren to see their grandparents.

Quebec primary school students returned to class on January 11.

Secondary school students go back on January 18.