Review of SNA allocations paused after backlash from teachers, parents and unions

Michael Bolton

The Department of Education is pausing the review of SNA allocations.

It follows complaints from schools and parents, reporting a reduction in the number of available posts.

The review sparked criticism after the National Council for Special Education (NSCE) contacted some schools, indicating their allocations were being reduced.

However, the Department insists the review process will lead to 1,700 more SNAs overall in the upcoming academic year.

The Minister for Education, Hildegaard Naughton, says the review is being paused, and she is engaging to ensure the concerns are understood.

In a statement, Naughton said: "SNAs play a critical role in our schools – I know how much they mean to school communities, parents and the children they support.

“I have listened carefully to all of the issues raised by parents and school communities in recent days. I want to reiterate that there are no cuts to SNA numbers.

“I want to ensure that SNAs are with the children who most need their care.

“To that end, I am pausing the review of the SNA allocations.

“I, the Tánaiste and the Taoiseach are engaging intensively to ensure that all of the concerns raised are really understood and children with special educational needs are fully supported.

“No further letters on SNA review outcomes will issue until these engagements have concluded in the coming weeks.”