Charlie McConalogue (Donegal North East, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The information provided today is not satisfactory. The figures provided do not add up. As rightly pointed out by the Minister, demand for special needs assistant supports has increased by more than 10%, which is similar to the increase in demand for resource teachers. The Minister initially proposed to cut the number of resource teaching hours but subsequently reversed that decision. He has consistently since then held the line that there have been no cuts or reductions in service to students who need SNA supports even though demand has increased.

Today I am seeking information specifically in regard to new applications for SNA support for 2013-14. Concern has been expressed that these may not be approved. I am disappointed we are not getting absolute clarity on this issue. I accept that the Minister has given a commitment to communicate the information when available. I acknowledge there are serious pressures on the education budget but it is critical we are told what will happen this autumn to students who qualify and have applied for SNA or resource teaching supports for the year 2013-14. It is crucial the Minister gives a commitment that these posts will be approved and that there will be no delay in appointing them so that these students will not be left for a number of months without supports.

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