Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 29 May 2014
14. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Education and Skills the likely impact of his Department's Circular 0030/2014 on children with special needs in our schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23375/14]
View answer19. Deputy Colm Keaveney asked the Minister for Education and Skills his response to the alarm and disquiet that has been provoked by his Department's recent Circular 0030/2014 on special needs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23371/14]
View answer41. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Education and Skills the way he proposes to address the deep concerns that have been expressed with regard to the recently published Circular 0030/2014 on special needs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23368/14]
View answer46. Deputy John Browne asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he has met with parents of children with special needs to discuss his Department's recent Circular 0030/2014; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23379/14]
View answer48. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Education and Skills the implications of Circular 0030/2014 for the education of children with special needs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23373/14]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 14, 19, 41, 46 and 48 together.
The purpose of Circular 0030/2014 is not to reduce the number of SNA posts in schools, but to clarify the role and purpose of SNA support and to ensure it is targeted at those pupils who need it. My officials have already consulted with school Management Bodies prior to issuing the circular and is currently setting up further meetings with Management Bodies and Parent representative groups to allay any fears.
There are currently some 10,965 posts available for allocation of which 10,656 SNA posts are currently allocated, which is more than at any time previously. This means that - rather than a reduction of SNA posts - there is provision for a further 309 posts to be allocated to schools to end-December 2014. These extra posts will ensure the Government's policy of ensuring every child assessed as needing SNA support will receive access to support. Implementation of the circular should ensure that children's care needs are better understood so that SNAs can work more effectively to assist children in their care.
