Marian Harkin (Sligo-Leitrim, Independent)
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I hear what Mr. Kearney is saying but I am looking at it from the other perspective. I hear what he has said about certain hotspots. Change is always difficult. It is difficult in any institution and educational institutions are the same as all others. For change to happen significant supports are needed. The carrot is much more important than the stick. I am not saying the legislation is a stick but it is to some extent.

I want to follow on with another question that relates to this. Courses for teachers, St. Angela's in Sligo and courses for special needs assistants have been mentioned. Does the NCSE feel that sufficient courses, seminars and educational opportunities are in place for teachers so that we have sufficient numbers? Is there a timeframe for the 3,500 special needs assistants? How many will be there this year, next year and the year after?

Last week I spoke to some childcare providers. Many childcare providers have level 6 or 7 qualifications. Their services close during the summer. They made the point that perhaps there is a real opportunity, with a little bit of further education, for them to help with July provision and summer provision. I know this is not directly the responsibility of the NCSE but do the witnesses think it would be worth their while considering liaising with childcare providers or schools on extra places for July provision? I do not need to tell the witnesses it is very important.