Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 23 May 2024
42. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the progress made to resolve the terms and conditions of employment of personal assistants who work in some education and training boards; the timeline for when the issue is expected to be resolved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23179/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will be aware, SOLAS was authorised to revise the Guidelines on the Fund for Students with Disabilities to provide for a standard hourly rate of €21 plus 8% holiday pay for personal assistant employed directly by ETBs, with effect from 1st March 2024. My officials are finalising the terms of reference for a review of Personal Assistance services funded from the Fund for Students with Disabilities across tertiary education settings.
FÓRSA have lodged a formal claim for improvements to the terms and conditions of personal assistants employed by a number of Education and Training Boards, seeking the establishment of a public service grade, with an incremental salary scale, pension and leave entitlements. The matter has been referred to the Workplace Relations Commission for Conciliation.
