Cecilia Keaveney
Ceist:125 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Education and Science if there is a system to expedite decisions in relation to classroom assistants and secondments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21595/03]
Written Answers. - School Staffing.
All applications for resource teacher and special needs assistant resources received after 14 February 2003 and by 31 August 2003 will be examined on the basis of the supporting professional report(s) and in the context of the resources already available to the school. The process involves an examination of each application and supporting documentation by a dedicated team of inspectors and psychologists and schools will be informed of the outcome as early as possible in the school year 2003-04.
The significance of the reference to secondments is not clear, but if the Deputy provides additional information in this regard, I would be glad to respond.