Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

When one meets school principals, some have different views about the allocation models for special education in particular. There is ongoing engagement between the Department, the NCSE, schools and school principals. I will raise these issues with the Minister. She is in touch with the primary school sector and all stakeholders as regards how schools are resourced and various allocation models are determined.

Special education has expanded enormously. Compared to where it was 25 years ago, it is beyond recognition. Then we need models. If we have 21,000 more SNAs, that needs systems of administration and allocation. That can create problems and I do take the point on factoring in the needs of children being factored in certain cases.

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