Mr. Dessie Robinson:

On the issue of increasing demands, we are basing the evidence on the SNAs coming back to us to tell us of huge increases in demand in their schools. Rather than having an additional SNA to look after one or two children, they are now looking after seven, so it is clear to us there is a definite increase in demand. When we spoke earlier about what is required, I point to the range of duties SNAs perform throughout different schools. Schools dealing with profoundly handicapped children are different to schools where a child may need catheterisation. The SNA would be expected to perform that invasive procedure on the child and we have to consider both the time needed for that and the qualifications and training required.

The SNAs see this as a vocation - like a teacher or a nurse, they would have to, given some of the functions they carry out. The work they carry out and the level of respect they receive are issues, as Deputy Ó Ríordáin noted. If we are to do anything to ensure SNAs are brought up to a level that would generate respect, if nothing else, we need a professional development scheme to ensure they move along and perhaps provide some of the services that are needed. While my colleagues in the teaching unions might have a problem with this, the fact is some of the SNAs are highly qualified. As my colleague from the NCSE said earlier, there are different levels, but some are so well qualified they could teach children. There are teachers doing this function, believe it or not, who would rather take that part than actually teach on a full-time basis. There is a need to look at the whole situation. We will not be found wanting in this area in terms of help and taking part in the attempt to find a way forward that would improve the services our members provide to the children who need it.