Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

The answer to the Deputy's question is no, we are not. Ireland is meeting its requirements and conditions, challenging though they are, and when the interest rate reduction is applied that will be of extra help. This debate is about the report of the European Council meeting, but the Deputy wants to raise the question of special needs assistants. This is an important, sensitive and personal issue for those to whom it applies. I and the Minister for Education and Skills have dealt with the matter. The Deputy is aware of the cap of 10,000 that applies to the number of special needs assistants. The Deputy is aware that the Minister for Education and Skills approved the allocation of 90% of assistants while retaining more than 400 for cases in which they may be required. No child who needs the attention of a special needs assistant will be left without one.

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