Mike Kennelly (Fine Gael)

I call for a debate on a matter that goes to the very heart of child protection in our schools: the recognition of special needs assistants, SNAs, as mandated persons under the Children First Act. There is mandatory reporting for certain professions, including doctors, nurses, social workers and teachers. Every day, SNAs across Ireland work on the front line of care. They are the constant support for our most vulnerable children, those with additional and complex needs. They see what teachers or principals may not always see - the quiet withdrawal, the unexplained bruises, the sudden change in mood - and they are trusted by the children and, crucially, by their parents. Despite this central role, SNAs are not listed as mandated persons in the legislation that governs child protection reporting. This is an unacceptable gap in our system. It leaves dedicated professionals uncertain about their legal responsibilities and risks delays in identifying and reporting abuse or neglect. If we are serious about a culture of vigilance and care, every adult who has direct and sustained contact with children, especially those in intimate care roles, must be empowered and required to act. To leave SNAs outside the mandated framework is to underestimate their importance in the life of a child. I call on the Minister to come forward for a full debate in this House and to update the relevant Schedules to the Children First Act to ensure that special needs assistants are formally recognised as mandated persons.