Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 28 January 2026
51. Deputy Ryan O'Meara asked the Minister for Education and Youth her plans to change the title of special needs assistant (SNA) in a classroom-to-classroom assistant, given SNAs play a major role in all students lives; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6689/26]
View answerMy department acknowledges the central role that the more than 23,000 Special Needs Assistants (SNAs) play in the successful inclusion of students with special educational needs in schools by helping to ensure that these students can access education to support them to achieve their full potential.
The purpose of the SNA role as set out in Circular 30/2014 is to provide schools with additional adult support staff who can assist children with special educational needs who also have additional and significant care needs. It is important to note that an SNA does not have a teaching/pedagogical role, and the role differs from the classroom assistant or teaching assistant in other jurisdictions.
My department is aware that language is ever evolving and regularly engages with stakeholders such as the National Disability Authority (NDA), the Health Service Executive (HSE) and the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) on the use of disability language and terminology.
The review of the Education for Persons with Special Educational Needs (EPSEN) Act 2004 was initiated by my department in December 2021, to modernise and reflect the experiences of students, staff and families. The review process included extensive stakeholder engagement, including with parents, educators, advocacy groups, and experts in special education. The online surveys and focus groups sought stakeholders view’ on terminology in use.
An implementation plan for the EPSEN Review is due to be published shortly. This plan will guide the next steps and support the development of policy and legislative changes needed to deliver a more inclusive and equitable education system for all students. The Report on the Review of EPSEN Act is available [on] www.gov.ie.
Separately, my department is working on the first SNA Workforce Development Plan. This plan which is at an advanced stage is being developed in close consultation with SNAs, school leaders, parents, students, trade unions, and other relevant stakeholders. The plan includes review and development of the SNA role. Further updates on the plan are available via the SNA Information Hub at www.gov.ie/snahub.
