Government Pauses Controversial SNA Cuts After Parental Pushback

The Irish Government paused a controversial review of Special Needs Assistant (SNA) allocations in February following significant pushback from parents, teachers, and unions. This U-turn occurred after the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) informed nearly 200 schools that their SNA allocations would be reduced.

Parents expressed deep frustration, arguing that the planned removals were illogical and detrimental to children with diverse needs. One parent, writing to Minister for Education Hildegarde Naughton, described the removal of an SNA as «devastating,» especially after a May 2025 NCSE review had guaranteed three posts. Despite increased enrollment, a subsequent November review led to the loss of an SNA.

Another parent highlighted the potential loss of two mainstream SNA posts, stating that the review outcome did not reflect the «lived reality» of children with significant behavioral and emotional needs. Concerns were raised that SNA support appeared to be limited to children with «toileting needs, acute medical conditions or profound physical disabilities,» ignoring others who require consistent support to access education safely. A parent of a non-verbal autistic child noted their school was set to lose almost four SNA posts, despite Budget 2025 funding for 1,600 additional SNAs.

Emails released via Freedom of Information confirmed the pause, with replies to parents noting record special education funding and an increase to almost 25,000 SNAs nationwide, a 45 percent rise since 2020. A new circular detailing the «evolved SNA role» is expected by the end of June.