Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 12 December 2018
129. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to remove the requirement to take SNAs from panels for special schools in view of the fact that they may not have the necessary skill set, knowledge and relevant experience that is sought through the usual recruitment process; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52481/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am not aware of any specific proposal along the lines outlined by the Deputy. The purpose of the Supplementary Assignment Arrangements is to facilitate eligible SNAs who are being made redundant by one employer in filling SNA vacancies that may become available in another school or ETB. The arrangements are in place for recognised Primary, Secondary, Community and Comprehensive Schools and ETBs, and apply to all of these schools with no exclusions.
Under the terms of the most recent Circular (0034/2018), SNAs with a Panel Form 1 (PF1) retain the first option to be interviewed. The employer is obliged to offer the vacancy to an SNA with a PF1, subject to the SNA meeting any specific competencies and/or requirements to meet the special educational needs of the pupil. If none of the applicants with the PF1 form meet the specific competencies and/or requirements of the Board then the employer can call other applicants for interview.
