Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 July 2022
1161. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Minister for Education the estimated cost of increasing the July provision rate for SNAs to that paid to a teacher; the number of individuals who would benefit; the overall cost of the July provision programme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41673/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn May the Government announced this year's Summer Programme, which allowed all primary and post-primary schools to offer a summer programme for students with complex special educational needs and those at greatest risk of educational disadvantage. The Summer Programme is an expanded version of what was previously known as July Provision.
Building on the 2021 programme, all primary and post primary schools can offer a summer programme and in line with last year’s funding, there is up to €40 million available to provide for this year’s programme. The actual cost will be available after all claims have been processed.
My Department recognises that not all schools will be in a position to provide a school-based programme. A home-based summer programme will continue to be available for children with complex needs where their schools are not providing a school-based programme.
Teachers and SNAs are paid per hour of tuition/care support delivered in line with agreed terms and public service pay agreements. Public service pay is dealt with through centralised engagement and collective bargaining between Government and the public service unions.
Payment rates for Overseers, Teachers and SNAs who work on the school based programme will be based on what they are normally paid during the school year (their personal rate). Preparation hours will be paid in the same way. All others will be paid a daily/hourly rate of pay.
Under the home-based programme, grant funding is made available so that parents/legal guardians can engage the services of a Teacher or an SNA to provide tuition or care support as appropriate in the child’s home.
