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Special Educational Needs Staff

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 February 2019

Tuesday, 26 February 2019

Questions (199)

Mattie McGrath

Question:

199. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding guideline changes issued by his Department and the National Council for Special Education, NCSE, for SNAs in relation to intimate care needs policy (details supplied); if there has been consultation with SNAs regarding the change; the protections in place for SNAs that feel vulnerable in an intimate care setting without a witness; if these guidelines have been signed into law; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9338/19]

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Written answers

Individual school authorities are responsible for the management and effective deployment of Special Needs Assistants within their school. School management authorities are also responsible for ensuring there are up to date policies and procedures in place in relation to child protection. In carrying out their functions, school management must have regard to the law, relevant Departmental circulars and guidance. The principal has overall responsibility for the day to day leadership and management of all staff in the school including responsibility for ensuring that staff understand their roles and responsibilities. Where staff have concerns, these should be raised with local school management in the first instance.

With regard to the management of the intimate care needs of children in schools, my Department is of the view that there is a need to strike a balance between adequately protecting the child on the one hand and preserving the child's dignity on the other. In general therefore, there is no requirement for two SNAs to be present in the management of intimate care needs situations. Schools are required to have a care plan for each student for whom SNA support is provided and the SNA role in supporting the student should be agreed with parents as part of the care plan.

In the context of its Comprehensive Review of the Special Needs Assistant Scheme, the NCSE has recommended that guidance be prepared for schools in this area and this is currently being considered by my Department.

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