SNA review and school allocations
Deputy Stanley argued the SNA review was effectively cutting support from vulnerable pupils in schools such as Rath and Timahoe. The Taoiseach said workforce planning and consultations with the NCSE were under way and the guidelines were part of that process.
I want to ask about the review of SNAs, which some have described as cuts. I understand reviews have to happen and that two thirds of schools will not be affected but one third will be and Rath National School and Timahoe National School in Laois have been notified of cuts. No account has been taken of the children being enrolled for September and their special needs. Circular 32/25 will mean some of the most vulnerable children losing their support and that support is essential. The pause is welcome but the Government needs to go further. The guidelines that came with the circular state, "The behaviour should be supported holistically with whole school and whole class approaches and individual needs supported by the class teacher ...". The problem is when a situation arises - and I have been in a school where I saw this happening - the teacher cannot leave the classroom and leave the other 23 or 24 pupils on their own. I am asking the Taoiseach to have these guidelines reviewed.
Comment on this
There is a workforce plan under way within the Department and the NCSE in respect of special needs assistants. Consultations are taking place and that would involve a review.