Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)

I have seen at first hand the important role our SNAs play in classrooms all over the country, giving that little bit of additional support and help to young girls and boys who need it as they begin their school life and throughout their educational journey. There are 23,000 SNAs in our country. Compare that with where we were a number of years ago. In 2011, we had just over 10,000. There are now over 23,000. In the past five years, the number of SNAs has increased by 43% and they are needed. I just want to put that on the record of the House.

The work now under way is about ensuring we make best use of the SNAs available and respond to issues raised with us by representative bodies on the needs of SNAs. I will let the Minister for education know this matter has been raised here today. This work is all about ensuring the rapid increase in the number of SNAs is used in a way that brings benefits to those who need them most. I am very much aware of the sensitivity of the matter, as is the Minister for education.

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