Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 February 2026
618. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Education and Youth if any review is being carried out into the parameters of the SNA role in classrooms that would expand the current remit; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10128/26]
View answer619. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Education and Youth if any review is being carried out into Circular 30/2014 related to the role of SNAs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10129/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 618 and 619 together.
I wish to assure the Deputy that I am very aware of the valuable contribution that the more than 23,000 Special Needs Assistants make to the educational experience and overall wellbeing of students in our schools. I also recognise that SNAs demonstrate a deep commitment to their roles and to the students that they work with, frequently going above and beyond their core duties.
My department, through the dedicated Special Needs Assistant Workforce Development Unit, is finalising the first Special Needs Assistant Workforce Development Plan (the plan). This plan provides a comprehensive framework for understanding and supporting the SNA role and will introduce a series of policy developments to strengthen clarity, direction and consistency within the workforce.
The plan is structured around five key pillars:
Pillar 1 - Review and development of the SNA role
Pillar 2 - Establishment of a quality framework
Pillar 3 - Establishment of an SNA learning and development programme
Pillar 4 - Supporting SNA recruitment, retention, and diversity
Pillar 5 - Development of a communications strategy
Work on the plan has involved significant research and collaboration including consultation with SNAs and other stakeholders including school management bodies, unions, school staff, parents and children.
A comprehensive review of circular 0030/2014 which currently sets out the SNA role and duties is being progressed under Pillar One of the plan. This work examines the evolving nature of the SNA role and duties and will inform the development of a new circular that provides clear, up to date guidance for SNA, school staff and the whole school community.
The workforce development plan is now in its final stages. Further updates, including information on the revised circular, will be published on the [SNA Information Hub] on www.gov.ie in due course.
