Kilkenny schools reassured there will be NO reduction in SNAs
News is welcomed by Deputy Peter 'Chap' Cleere
Fianna Fáil TD for Kilkenny, Deputy Peter ‘Chap’ Cleere, has welcomed confirmation from Hildegarde Naughton, Minister for Education, and Michael Moynihan, Minister of State for Special Education, that there will be no reductions to Special Needs Assistants (SNAs) for the next school year.
Following a meeting with government leaders, it has been agreed that all special schools allocated additional resources will retain them, providing clarity and reassurance to families and school communities.
“A significant number of schools across Kilkenny have been in touch with my office in recent weeks outlining their concerns,” Deputy Cleere said. “I have worked diligently with the Minister to ensure these concerns were clearly heard at government level.
“Our priority must always be the needs of the child. SNAs play a vital role in supporting children with additional needs to access education in a meaningful and inclusive way. This confirmation brings much-needed certainty to schools, parents and most importantly to the children who rely on this support every day.”
Deputy Cleere noted that agreement has been reached to advance work on an SNA redeployment scheme, a workforce plan and updates to the 2014 circular outlining the role of an SNA.
These policy developments will be guided by a clear child-centred approach before any further decisions are taken.