Shane Curley (Fianna Fail)

On a positive note, in the most recent questionnaire, 95% of SNAs reported being at least fairly satisfied with their job. On the negative side, 85% reported feeling at least fairly stressed. A huge issue in that regard is that they do not actually have a full definition of their role in the classroom. That really needs to be addressed. There is a real communications gap where we do not educate SNAs on what their exact job is in the classroom. We are bringing them in on school placements. The Department is not proactively ensuring they get on-the-job training when they pursue courses in early education. As a result, there is huge stress when they start off as SNAs. I have seen newly qualified SNAs come into the classroom and suffer. I have had to try to guide new SNAs as to what their role is. We need to address that.