310. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Education the number of special needs assistants employed in primary and second level schools on 1 January, in each of the past five years, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36451/24]

Enabling children with special educational needs to receive an education is a priority for this government.

The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) has the responsibility for planning and coordinating school supports for children with special educational needs including the allocation of special needs assistants (SNAs). Allocations are provided to schools on the basis of the school's overall profile of need.

As of the end of June 2024 there were over 21,000 SNAs allocated to schools nationwide. The total number of whole time equivalent SNA posts allocated as of 31 Dec of each of the specified years is provided in the following table.

The board of management, as the employer, is responsible for filling the vacancy and the decision on whether to employ a full time SNA to fill a full-time post or to employ an equivalent number of part time SNAs rests with the employer.