119 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills with regard to a review of the special needs assistant allocation for a school (details supplied), the reason appeal forms were not furnished to parents on foot of the special educational needs organiser’s report which recommended such a drastic reduction in the SNA allocation; the basis for this recommendation; if a written explanation detailing the basis of the decision will be given to parents; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3241/11]

The Deputy will be aware that the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is an independent agency with responsibility for determining the appropriate staffing levels in relation to the support of pupils with special educational needs in mainstream and special schools. The NCSE operates within my Department's policy in allocating this support. The NCSE has advised that it has responded positively to a request from the school in question to meet in the context of the outcome of the review.