1244. Deputy Donna McGettigan asked the Minister for Education and Youth the estimated full year costs if 300 additional special needs assistants were recruited; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [56536/26]

This government is fully committed to supporting students with special educational needs to fulfil their full potential and the Programme for Government makes a number of commitments to deliver on this objective.

The number of special need assistants (SNAs) has grown significantly, to support the increasing number of students with special education needs. By the end of this year there will be approximately 26,000 SNAs in our education system.

In 2026, over €3 billion will be spent supporting students with special educational needs. It will ensure that specialist capacity continues to grow by providing 3,000 specialist places. The majority of these places will be available in special classes within mainstream schools.

The estimated full-year cost of a new entrant special needs assistant is €37,374 per annum.

The estimated cost of 300 additional SNAs as outlined in your question is approximately €11.2 million.

My department and the NCSE are committed to delivering an education system that is of the highest quality and where every child and young person feels valued and is actively supported and nurtured to achieve their full potential.