Darren O'Rourke (Meath East, Sinn Fein)

There is a major issue and difference in terms of the criteria that apply in the context of sanctioning SNAs for schools and the work they are doing in real terms - a lot of preventative work and supporting children in addition to assisting with primary care needs. There is an indication the Department is open to a wider definition of the role. Is that the case?

Specifically related to that is a point I have made before. We heard in the last session that parents and school leaders feel the NCSE is a gatekeeper and this is a system of rationing. I have to challenge the idea that schools will get the resources they need. We have heard otherwise in this session. Practically every school would say it needs more SNAs than it has.

The care needs that exist are not being met. I take it as a positive that there is an indication that the Department is willing to look at an expanded role. However, at the same time, the practical policy coming down from the guidelines and the NCSE and the on-the-ground work by the SENOs is to ration, constrain and restrict access to these essential supports. How are we going to square that?