Vol. 531 No. 1
163 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Education and Science if the issues that resulted in the special needs assistants withdrawing their services in July 2000 have been resolved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5051/01]
In recent years, education services have been extended through the month of July in the case of facilities catering for children with severe/profound general learning disability. I recently announced my intention to introduce a similar extension of service in the case of facilities catering for children with autism.
In cases where education services are extended through the month of July there is no compulsion on existing school staff, including special needs assistants, to work during the period in question. In the event of such staff choosing to work through the July period additional remuneration is paid. Where special needs assistants on the staff of schools are not available to work during July, the school authorities are free to recruit suitable replacement staff for the period in question. This arrangement worked satisfactorily for the month of July 2000.
My Department is currently reviewing arrangements for July coverage in the coming year to ensure that suitable arrangements are put in place.
164 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Education and Science if, further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 136 and 398 of 21 November 2000, he will state the agreement that has been reached with the INTO and other teacher organisations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5052/01]
My Department is in discussion with the INTO in relation to the developments in provision for children with autism which I outlined in the reply to which the Deputy refers.
Proposals put forward by the INTO in relation to these matters are currently being considered by my Department.
