Darren O'Rourke (Meath East, Sinn Fein)

Yes, the role is much expanded and that is a practical difficulty that I see in many schools, particularly when reviews are under way. I have said it publicly previously that there are major problems with these guidelines. They should be parked and there should be further engagement. We need to have a proper discussion on the actual role of SNAs and rather than rationing and restricting, we need to look at a pathway to providing the necessary supports that children in our schools need. I also know from speaking to teachers that the implications for them and for principals in terms of the expectation that they would deal with behavioural issues and so on, are a major concern.

Finally, I want to refer to the question of occupational injury leave. There was a presentation on this in the audiovisual room recently and there is Labour Party legislation on the books here. Has there been any progress in relation to that and why is it important?