Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)

The Deputy will also be aware that the NCSE, through its network of local special educational needs organisers, SENOs, is at present carrying out a review on the allocation of SNAs in schools with a view to ensuring the criteria governing the allocation of such posts are properly met. This exercise may result in the identification of surplus posts which are in the system and which do not meet the current criteria, such as posts that have been retained when a pupil's care needs have diminished or where the pupil has left. At the same time the NCSE is allocating additional posts where the criteria are met.

The current review relates to SNA posts. No decision has been taken on teacher posts. Falling enrolments would be one of the factors to be considered in this context. However, any change in the profile of the pupils being enrolled in special schools will also be taken into account.

In the case of the school in question, the NCSE is committed to engaging with the school authorities and all other relevant State agencies to manage the situation in the short term and to ensure a sound basis for staff levels in the interest of pupils. The NCSE is also arranging to meet parents individually in consultation with the school authorities.

This process is ongoing. A meeting took place on Friday last, 26 February, between the NCSE and the school authorities. Without prejudice to the allocation role of the NCSE, officials from my Department also attended this meeting. The NCSE is working constructively with the school authorities to resolve any outstanding matters. It is important that all schools work constructively with the NCSE on any staffing issues. It is not appropriate for my Department to intervene in the allocation process.

The Deputy is fully aware that I have prioritised the provision of special education supports to schools. This is a key Government policy. However, this does not mean that resources, allocated in response to various historical factors, are retained in schools ad infinitum. At a time of constrained resources, it is essential we ensure public resources, both staff and other resources, are deployed as effectively as possible. Resources left in an area that are not in accordance with criteria mean public resources are not available for another deserving area.

I am sure the Deputy shares my concern to ensure there is a consistent application of policy in the allocation of special needs supports throughout the country. This is all that is happening at present. I assure the Deputy that supports will continue to be made available to schools which have enrolled pupils who qualify for such support and children with special educational needs will continue to have access to an appropriate education in line with my Department's policy.

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