Robbie Gallagher (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I wish to raise the disappointing manner in which the more than 8,000 special needs assistants, SNAs, in our primary schools are being treated by the Department of Education and Skills. Their frustration is borne out by the 97% vote in favour of industrial action over the delay in the publication of SNA allocations for the 2018 academic school year, which is very disappointing. The problem is that special needs assistants in our primary schools do not know if they will have a job for the year. If they do not get a post when the allocations are published, they are not in a position to apply for one in another school due to the delay in the publication. IMPACT, which represents more than 8,000 SNAs countrywide, is of the opinion, with which I agree, that the Department could be in breach of employment law due to the manner in which SNAs are being treated. It is also unfair on schools and boards of management which are trying to plan for the year ahead. I would like to see the Minister address the House on the issue so that it can be sorted out for the benefit of not just the special needs assistants and the schools, but the children who most need their help.

I join others in commending everyone involved in the response to yesterday's storm. The point made by my colleague on the national broadcaster is an important one. It is also important to note, however, that our local radio stations played a vital role. In Cavan-Monaghan, people were informed of roads being closed, whether local or minor, which was great information to have. This demonstrates the benefit of local radio.