David Stanton
Question:407 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Education and Science the rates of pay received by classroom assistants; the total cost of this scheme in a full year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27580/00]
Written Answers. - School Staffing.
With effect from the 1 October 2000, the pay rates of special needs assistants are based on a 13-point salary scale, starting at £12,426 and rising at its maximum to £19,942 per annum.
My Department is currently in the process of implementing the increases due to special needs assistants under the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness.
In addition, the salary levels for special needs assistants have been subject to negotiations with staff representatives under theProgramme for Competitiveness and Work, PCW, and the staff concerned accepted increases under the PCW in July of this year.
Arrangements are being made to ensure that payments due to special needs assistants, including arrears, will be paid before the end of December 2000.
The estimated cost of this scheme in the current year is £15.4 million, including the arrears due to special needs assistants under the PCW.