Dáil Éireann - Volume 531 - 27 February, 2001

Written Answers. - Special Needs Assistants.

429. Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science when back money will be paid to a person (details supplied) in Dublin 12; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5573/01]

Minister for Education and Science (Dr. Woods): The person to whom the Deputy refers is one of more than 1,700 special needs assistants whose salary levels have recently been increased as a result of an agreement reached under the terms of the Programme for Competitiveness and Work.

The agreement in question also involves an entitlement to back money on the part of the majority of special needs assistants, including the person to whom the Deputy refers.

My Department is currently computing the arrears in question and the payment due to the person mentioned by the Deputy will be issued as speedily as possible.