No reduction of SNAs in school system

Fine Gael TD and Member of the Oireachtas Committee on Health and Children, Peter Fitzpatrick, today (Tuesday) welcomed reassurances from the Minister for Education and Skills that there will be no reduction of Special Needs Assistance (SNA) posts in the school system.

“In April, the Department of Education issued a circular on the SNA scheme detailing how the scheme works; the allocation process, the role of the SNA, the role of teachers, how requirements are addressed, reviews, the appeals process, along with many other factors. Following on from this, I have been contacted by a number of parents concerned about a possible reduction in SNA support.

“Today the Minister for Education has assured me that there is no question of reducing the number of SNA posts in the school system.

“Inaccurate interpretations of the circular issued in April are very dangerous, they cause fear and anxiety to people already concerned about their children’s welfare

“Parents of children in need of extra support in school are, of course, extremely concerned about SNA support and they are eager to ensure that their child receives the assistance that they need. SNA support is a priority for this Government; every child who needs access to an SNA will get access to an SNA in the coming school year.

“The Department of Education and Skills has increased the number of SNAs to its highest level yet with 10,656 Whole Time Equivalent posts currently allocated to schools. The Government now spends €1.3 billion on special education, this is the same amount that is spent on the Garda Síochana.   Support for children with special educational needs is a priority for us.

“An additional 390 SNAs were approved last December, in response to demographic growth and increased demand for SNA support. It is standard for the SNA scheme to be reviewed to ensure that those in need of support are receiving it.

“An information booklet will be released by National Council for Special Education over the summer to allay any fears parents may have.”