Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 29 November 2022
526. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science his views on concerns raised (details supplied); if he will arrange for the appropriate officials to progress a meeting request in respect of the role of Personal Assistants who are contracted through ETBs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [58770/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraWithin the Further Education and Training sector, SOLAS administers FSD funding to the Education and Training Boards (ETBs) who independently manage the funding allocations to PLC providers for services and accommodations required to support students with disabilities. Funding can be used to provide a range of supports and accommodations including non-medical helpers such as personal assistants and notetakers. I understand that some ETBs engage external service providers to provide personal assistant services while other ETBs directly employ personal assistants. As set out in the SOLAS FSD Guidelines, in cases where PLC colleges/schools or ETBs directly employ personnel to deliver supports, the contractual relationship is strictly between the individual employee and the ETB or college/school. As such, the terms and conditions of employment for Personal Assistants is a matter for the individual ETBs.
I am aware of the claims being made by personal assistants directly employed by ETBs and by FÓRSA for improved terms and conditions for these workers who are currently paid on an hourly rate basis. I understand that FÓRSA has tabled the matter for discussion at the ETB IR Forum, which deals with the ETB sector. As the Deputy will appreciate this matter should be pursued within the established industrial relations structures.
