Cathal Crowe (Clare, Fianna Fail)
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62. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if she will consider a change in the way in which July Provision is considered as part of a teacher’s work (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18524/23]

Josepha Madigan (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael)
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The Department recently announced details of the 2023 Summer Programme (formerly July Provision) on 9 February 2023. All schools will have an opportunity to run a programme for those children that need it the most. The main priority in 2023 is that those children with the most complex special educational needs, especially in special schools, should have access to a school-based summer programme.

The Summer Programme is reliant on schools, teachers and Special Needs Assistants (SNAs) choosing to participate on a voluntary basis. The pay rates for teachers and SNAs participating in the Summer Programme are 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 to teachers and SNAs in respect of the Summer Programme is not pensionable nor is a superannuation contribution deducted from the gross remuneration paid. It is therefore not counted for service.

Full details of the Summer Programme is available on www.gov.ie/summerprogramme.