Kenny calls for urgent engagement with SNAs as concerns grow over workforce development plan
Kenny calls for urgent engagement with SNAs as concerns grow over workforce development plan - The Labour Party
Labour Party Education Spokesperson Eoghan Kenny TD has called on the Government, the Department of Education, the NCSE and Fórsa to urgently address the growing concerns being raised by Special Needs Assistants (SNAs) regarding the proposed SNA Workforce Development Plan.
Deputy Kenny said:
“Over recent days I have been contacted by SNAs from across the country who feel that their voices have not been adequately heard in the development of these proposals. Their concerns deserve to be listened to and treated with respect.
“SNAs are at the heart of our education system. Every day they support children with additional needs to access education, participate in school life, build relationships and reach their full potential. Their contribution to school communities cannot be overstated.
“While there is recognition that the proposed reforms seek to modernise and clarify the role of the SNA, many workers are expressing deep concerns that expanded responsibilities, mandatory training requirements and increased expectations are not being matched by meaningful improvements in pay, career progression or working conditions.
“Many SNAs feel that they are being asked to do more without receiving the recognition or remuneration that would be expected in any other profession. These concerns cannot simply be dismissed.
“I am particularly concerned by reports from SNAs who feel that the process has become a choice between accepting the proposals as presented or remaining under an outdated framework. Reform should be built on genuine engagement and consent, not on the perception that workers are being presented with a fait accompli.
“There are also legitimate questions about redeployment, continuity of support for children, staffing levels in schools, the provision of resources for inclusion and the long-term sustainability of the SNA workforce. These issues go beyond industrial relations. They directly affect children, families and school communities throughout the country.
“If the Government is serious about delivering an inclusive education system, then it must be equally serious about investing in the workforce that makes inclusion possible. Inclusion cannot be achieved through policy documents alone. It requires adequate staffing, proper training, fair pay, secure employment and meaningful engagement with those delivering support on the ground.
“I am calling on the Minister for Education, the Department of Education, the NCSE and Fórsa to engage directly with the concerns being raised by SNAs and to provide clear answers on pay, training, redeployment, career progression and workforce supports.
“Most importantly, SNAs must have confidence that their voices matter and that their concerns are being heard. They have stood by children and families for decades. It is now time for the system to stand by them.”