Cork TD calls for SNA guide review to be suspended

A Cork TD has called on education minister Helen McEntee to suspend the implementation of the National Council for Special Education’s (NCSE) 2025/26 Special Needs Assistant review process guidelines.

The NCSE recently announced that it will commence a national series of SNA reviews through 2025/26.

Speaking to The Echo, Labour education spokesperson Eoghan Kenny said the new NCSE guidelines were “deeply concerning”.

“They propose narrowed criteria, the unification of mainstream and special class allocations, and a restrictive definition of complex needs,” said Mr Kenny.

“Parents, teachers, and principals have already raised the alarm with me. School communities are extremely worried that these guidelines will not meet the real needs of children with additional requirements.”

Too short

He also criticised the proposed six-week consultation window, saying it is “far too short”.

“It is not realistic for such a complex and important process that will determine children’s access to supports for the school year ahead. To try and push this through in such a rushed way shows a disregard for families and schools.”

Proposing a suspension pending consultation with schools, Mr Kenny said: “We also need a clear and fair set of criteria for defining complex needs, adequate training and time for staff to understand new requirements, and assurances that SNA supports will not be reduced due to bureaucratic barriers.

“The appeals process must also be robust and accessible.”