I have received hundreds of emails from parents, teachers and SNAs complaining that the new NCSE guidelines for the review of SNA allocations for 2025-26 are unsatisfactory. These mainly consist of four demands. Those who sent them are calling for: a suspension of the guidelines until proper consultation with schools, SNAs and parents is carried out; fair criteria for defining level 3 complex care needs; assurances SNA supports will not be reduced; and that the six-week window for application for additional SNA supports be scrapped. Will the Tánaiste and the Department consult with the parties concerned to plot a better way forward, particularly as this issue has far-reaching consequences for many parents, teachers, SNAs and, especially, children with special needs?

I thank Deputy Mythen very much for raising this issue. There is, as there should be, constant engagement with all stakeholders in respect of special education. I am pleased that the budget has provided significant additional funding that will allow for 860 extra teaching posts in the area of special education needs and 1,717 extra SNA posts. Also, we will be providing funding of €16 million to roll out the national therapy service in education to special needs schools. I will ask the Minister to respond directly to the Deputy on this matter.