Dave Thompson MSP

HIGHLAND MSP Dave Thompson has called for Highland Council to use some of its £7 million underspend to fund the retention of 344 classroom assistants who have been told their posts are to be axed as part of a cost-cutting measure.

During First Ministers Questions at Holyrood on Thursday afternoon, Mr Thompson, MSP for Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch, highlighted the fact that Highland Council’s dramatic cost-cutting measures implemented over the past 12 months have left the local authority with an underspend of about £7 million.

He asked the First Minister if he agreed that some of this saving should be used to protect these “vital” classroom assistant posts.

Mr Salmond replied that Mr Thompson’s suggestion was “very reasonable” and that he was sure it would be heard by Highland Council’s administration.

Following the exchange Mr Thompson, who has campaigned against the cuts, stressed that classroom assistants play a very valuable role in supporting teachers as they educate all pupils in their classes.

He said: "I really do hope that LibDem led Highland Council see sense about this issue and agree to lift the threat from the 344 Classroom Assistants.

"It is clear to all who have an open mind about this issue that a full review is necessary over the next year and that the posts must be reprieved and given some security whilst that review takes place.

"The Council now has no financial excuse to cut these valuable posts and must respond to the sound arguments put forward by the Parent groups and others at their meeting on 23rd June."

Notes:

Mr Thompson’s supplementary question was: "LibDem led Highland Council has made much play about the problem the Council Tax freeze has given it, but, despite this, it has just announced an underspend last year of over £7 million.

"It has said that it needs to cut 344 Classroom Assistants in order to meet its budget this year and will make a decision on 23rd June.

"Does the First Minister agree with me that Highland Council should use some of this £7 million underspend to fund these vital Classroom Assistant posts for the next year so that a proper review of their role can be undertaken?"