John O'Mahony (Mayo, Fine Gael)

I thank the Ceann Comhairle for choosing this matter on the Adjournment. I want to appeal in the strongest possible way against the proposed reduction of four special needs assistants in St. Anthony's school, Castlebar.

The school has 40 students, ranging in age from four to 18, all of whom have mild general learning difficulties. However, many have other conditions such as Down's syndrome, ADD. ADHT, autism, cerebral palsy and speech disorders, to name but a few. I have visited the school and spoken to many of the parents who are full of glowing praise as regards the wonderful progress their children are making due to the diligence and commitment of all the staff, including the special needs assistants.

The key issue in this whole matter is that the criteria being used for the review of special needs assistant numbers is the same as that in use for mainstream schools. This is unfair, unjust and discriminates against the most vulnerable in our society who cannot speak for themselves. At present the school is just at coping level with six classes, including one for multi-disabled students. Each class has two special needs assistants and there is a nurse who cares for the medical needs of the pupils. The whole school evaluation carried out last January outlined the vital necessity of the 13 special needs assistants time and again. The proposed cut of four SNAs, special needs assistants, or 30% of staff is due to be implemented by Easter, only a short number of weeks away. This decision must be reversed.

I am pleased to share my time with Deputy Flynn tonight. This issue is above politics. As we speak, a public meeting is taking place in Castlebar which is waiting for the answer from the Minister of State. I urge Deputy Flynn to use whatever pressure is at her disposal to correct this matter. The campaign starting tonight in Castlebar is only the beginning. A positive answer here could result in the end of the campaign and the securing of employment for the four staff due to be cut. Otherwise, this will come back to haunt the Government.

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