Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The point that I made about the new model from the NCSE is that there are new additional supports. The professional development service for teachers, PDST, already engages with schools. In terms of supports, I have said from the very beginning, in advance of any special classes being set up, that the provision is there for two SNAs and one teacher for six students, and that is automatic.

In terms of the other therapeutic supports, that is not within our gift. What I will say is that we have had extensive engagement with other Departments in that regard and I think we have made good progress. Again, notwithstanding the fact it is not within our gift, there has been an acknowledgement of the importance of returning those therapeutic supports back into the system. Specifically in regard to the PDST and CPD for schools, that has been ongoing and it continues to be provided to schools.

There is scope for this additional new model that has been provided by the NCSE as well.