Mr. Gary Honer:

I thank the Senator for her comments and her support for SNAs. As someone who went to a DEIS school - I am from Crumlin - it would be an established fact that there would be a significant increase in mental health issues in DEIS schools. That is an established fact.

Recognition for SNAs as a professional grade is something Fórsa feels very strongly about and it has been campaigning on this for quite some time. In respect of the comparison in my presentation to a social worker where there would be reflective practice, this is something we have been campaigning on for quite some time. I thank the Senator for her comments and support for our members.