The review of special needs assistant, SNA, provision in primary schools commenced in September 2004 and is continuing. The review is concerned with the level and deployment of SNA posts in mainstream classes. The intention is to ensure that the level of approved SNA support in schools and the manner in which that support is being allocated are such as to ensure that the special care needs of pupils are being appropriately met. Decisions regarding the appropriate level of SNA support in respect of applications made to my Department will be based on the outcome of this review.
The school in question was reviewed in December 2004. My Department is finalising administrative matters in the context of all schools reviewed. I expect that this process will be completed shortly and the schools in question will be advised of the outcome of the reviews undertaken as quickly as possible thereafter.