Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

Before the general election, the Taoiseach not only promised to maintain special needs assistant provision in education but also supported a motion in the House to increase funding for SNAs this year. For the past few months parents of children with special needs have been coming under increasing pressure. Deputies have met many parents who are affected by what is an inflexible approach to the provision of SNAs. We know the provision of special needs assistants is critical for these children in order that they can avail of their constitutional right to an education.

Last night on "Prime Time" there were specific examples of how this policy was being implemented and how it was affecting children with special needs. The stories on the programme were truly shocking to anyone who was watching. It is simply unacceptable. The way in which the system is being implemented is heartless and demonstrates a hand-off approach on the part of the Minister. It is clear from all the evidence we have heard that there is a disconnect between what people are being told in the House and what is happening on the ground. Parents of special needs children are well aware of the commitments the Taoiseach made and his choice to break them will not be forgotten. Will he take a hands-on approach to this issue in order that genuine cases will be properly dealt with and common sense and flexibility will prevail?

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