Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 12 May 2026
559. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Education and Youth to outline in detail the proposed redeployment of SNAs in schools across County Kerry (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34231/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI would like to thank the Deputy for his question.
My department recognises the value of the SNA role in the successful inclusion of students with special educational needs into mainstream education, special classes and special schools, ensuring that these students can access education to enable them to achieve their best outcomes and reach their full potential.
Undertaken in conjunction with work on the first SNA Workforce Development Plan, the SNA Redeployment Scheme will be operated by the National Council for Education (NCSE).
The scheme is designed to support SNAs who are at risk of redundancy by offering them continued employment within the education sector. The introduction of a redeployment scheme for SNAs will ensure that experienced SNAs are retained in our schools, increasing capacity in the workforce and enhancing the service to children and young people with special educational care needs.
In addition, the scheme will increase job security for SNAs and encourage prospective SNAs to enter the workforce. Redeployment, complemented by structured training, creates opportunities for SNAs to broaden their experience across different school types and student profiles. This continuity strengthens the SNA role as a stable career option with clear entitlements and protections.
It has now been agreed that there will be no reductions to SNAs for the next school year 2026/27. All schools reviewed by the NCSE and allocated additional resources will receive them in the upcoming school year. Schools may recruit under the current arrangements set out in Department circulars for September 2026.
Updates and final details of the on the SNA Workforce Development Plan and details of the SNA Redeployment Scheme, including a comprehensive circular and guidelines, will be published on the NCSE website and the SNA Information Hub: ww.gov.ie/en/department-of-education/publications/special-needs-assistant-sna-information-hub/.
