Tom Fleming (Kerry South, Independent)

It is for very good reason we have the current quota of special needs assistants, SNAs, to provide vulnerable and disadvantaged children an opportunity to develop their educational skills to an acceptable level. Depriving these children at a vital time in their lives of the maximum support and assistance will adversely affect them for the rest of their lives, particularly in their ability to lead an independent lifestyle as they mature to adulthood.

Health and safety is a prime aspect of the role of SNAs. I am aware of one school in which during a 15 minute break an SNA must give meals and assist up to six children in the bathroom. This SNA is stretched to the limit and the situation is not acceptable.

The average salary of an SNA before tax and deductions is €24,000. Therefore, approximately €17,000 is the net wage. If an SNA is removed and becomes unemployed it will cost the State a substantial amount of that €17,000 in social welfare. It is not logical to remove an SNA as a cost-saving measure.

I know the Minister of State, Deputy Ciarán Cannon, is doing his level best on school transport but perhaps he will reconsider and amend the proposals for cuts in the school transport system. Very rural areas which are remote and inaccessible and where no other transport is available will be affected. It will put people in a very precarious position. I ask the Minister of State to utilise the private and rural transport bus service.

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