The education minister has said every child who needs a Special Needs Assistant will be given one.

The promise from Richard Bruton comes after the cabinet approved a 7% increase in the number of SNAs next year.

860 extra assistants will be hired, bringing the nationwide total to just under 13,000.

Minister Bruton has said schools will be allocated the funding by the end of the year.

“We’re determined use the success that we are now enjoying in the economy to lift everyone’s opportunities and where better to focus that attention than on children with special education needs.

“That’s why I think this is an important announcement.

“It is also very much part of the Government strategy for inclusion within the education system.”