Progress welcome in talks between SNAs and Government
Labour Education spokesperson, Aodhán Ó Ríordáin TD, has welcomed news of progress made in talks between the Fórsa union and Government on proposals to reassign Special Needs Assistants during the Covid-19 crisis.
Deputy Ó Ríordáin said:
“I welcome news from Fórsa today that a commitment has been made for SNAs to continue supporting their students during this crisis.
“SNAs play a vital role in our schools and classrooms, which deserves to be recognised and respected.
“Today’s announcement that there has been a commitment on the provision of a remote service is welcome, and I hope to get further clarity on the issue from the Minister for Health in the Dáil tomorrow.
“It is regrettable however that the potential redeployment of SNAs was mishandled by the Department of Education in the first place.
“I have said from the outset that SNAs shouldn’t be viewed as a profession that can be shifted about the public service at the drop of a hat.
“The great work of their union in illustrating this should also be recognised here and I congratulate Fórsa on their effective representation.
“I hope that the vital role played by SNAs in our education system will be fully recognised.”