Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

I understand the mental capacity Bill will be taken this session. On the other matter, the scheme has not changed and the criteria for the allocation of special needs assistants remains the same. If a pupil qualifies for support, a special needs assistant post will continue to be provided. The only thing that is happening is that surplus posts are being withdrawn. There is no question of posts being removed from schools where they meet the scheme's criteria. There is also no question of posts being left in schools indefinitely where they are deemed to be surplus to the care needs of pupils.

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