Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)

There has to be a lead in time to prepare for the start of the academic year in September. That is required for consultation, advice and other processes in order that children with special needs are identified and SNAs are matched to them. The date is 18 March but I am prepared to examine this to see if it can be pushed out. I am not fully aware of the constraints but I will consult with those involved, including the NSCE, to make sure we match the school starting date for a child with special needs with an SNA. That requires time and I do not know whether that can be pushed beyond 18 March.

See this speech in context