Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 11 December 2025
148. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Education and Youth for an update on the SNA Workforce Plan; the date on which it will be published; if it will recognise the expanded role of SNAs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [70747/25]
View answerI would like to thank the Deputy for their request to provide an update on the SNA workforce Development Plan. I very much value the vital role that the more than 23,000 special needs assistants (SNAs) play in the successful inclusion of students with special educational needs in our primary, post-primary and special schools.
The Special Needs Assistant (SNA) Workforce Plan remains a priority for my department and significant progress has been made to date. Research in preparation for the plan includes:
[Focus Groups with School Leaders ]
[National Survey of Special Needs Assistants]
Consultation with children and young people
Findings from this research provided valuable insight into the evolving role of the SNA and helped to inform proposals for the plan.
In addition, extensive collaboration and planning has been undertaken through working groups and stakeholder groups. This consultation is largely concluded and proposed actions have been developed. These actions must be carefully considered by my department and by the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation, before being approved for implementation. While it is not possible to be definitive on a publication date for the plan it is at an advanced stage.
The plan will reflect the evolved role of the SNA and will include measures to support SNAs and school communities in areas such as training, quality, recruitment and retention. Work is progressing on related initiatives including updating key circulars, a review of the SNA employment contract, and the development of a redeployment scheme.
I remain committed to ensuring that SNAs continue to be supported to effectively meet the needs of children and young people with special educational needs in our schools.
