No cuts to SNAs as backlash hits home with Government 

The Minister for Education & Youth, Hildegarde Naughton, has stated there will no cuts to SNA numbers in schools across the country, including Waterford where serious concerns were expressed that a controversial review of SNA allocations could lead to cuts in numbers.

The issue was raised by Sinn Féin TD, Deputy David Cullinane who said such a measure would be "out of touch with reality".

Commenting on the issue Deputy Cullinane said: "Schools in Waterford are contacting me following the outcome of recent SNA allocation reviews, and the message could not be clearer - these cuts will have a real and damaging impact on children with additional needs."

“Parents are extremely anxious about what September will look like," he said.

"They are worried that their children will lose vital supports that help them participate fully in school life," he added, before adding their anxiety is entirely justified.

“The Minister’s suggestion that schools should simply appeal these decisions to the NCSE is not good enough," he said.

"Principals and teachers in Waterford are already under immense pressure," he added. 

"They do not have the time or resources to fight bureaucratic battles just to retain supports their pupils already rely on."

However, Minister Naughton confirmed in a statement that "delivering a world-class education system, particularly for young people with special educational needs, is a priority" for her as Minister for Education & Youth.

“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," she said.

"I want to ensure that SNAs are with the children who most need their care," she added. “To that end, I am pausing the review of the SNA allocations."

Minister Naughton went on to comment: "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.”

She said €3 billion has been provided this year for special education, building on investment over previous years. 

The Minister also said the number of SNAs in Irish schools had increased by 45 per cent since 2020, and an additional 1,700 SNAs will support our children this year compared to 2025. 

"This means there will be 25,000 SNAs in schools in September 2026," she said.

“There will be more SNAs in every county, in mainstream, special classes and special schools in September 2026 than today," she added.