Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Ms Dempsey and Mr. Kelly for coming in today. The best thing about the Special Needs Parents Association is that in political discussions it always comes to the table with proposals and common sense and this makes our work a good deal easier. I am keen to hear its views on several issues. The representatives spoke about SNAs and the need for classroom assistants. Is the association satisfied with the criteria in place for SNAs? I am always astonished when one shows parents the criteria and job description for a SNA. They are informed that the SNA's responsibilities include cleaning up the classroom and doing photocopying for the teacher. This takes many parents and children with special needs by surprise because they presume the special needs assistant is there to look after the child.

There is a recurring debacle every couple of years with regard to school leavers with intellectual disabilities and their transition from school to a placement, whether in a day care centre or in further training or education. What are the views of the association on what can be done to improve that system?

A policy review for the domiciliary care allowance is currently talking place, which is welcome. Did the association make a submission? If so, can the representatives give us an idea of what was in it? At the moment a child must sign off the domiciliary care allowance at the age of 16 years and apply for disability allowance. While the disability allowance is a higher payment financially, there are significant difficulties in terms of children with special needs having to sign a form declaring that they are disabled. Does the association have a view on that?

In the document submitted, the association referred to a degree of improvement in that the NCSE is beginning to seek the views of parents. This appears to be a radical step forward. Will the association outline its relationship with the NCSE and how the council is interacting with parents?

We know there are many good SENOs throughout the country. However, as public representatives we notice a geographical difference. If there is a good SENO in one area or if a SENO takes one view, a child may have a better chance of getting a SNA or certain resource hours. Will the association offer its views on that as well?