SNAs stage protests in Athy and Newbridge

SPECIAL need assistants (SNAs) from across south Kildare gathered in Athy and Newbridge to protest the government’s proposed cuts to SNA posts across the country last Wednesday.

SNAs from Scoil Mhichil Naofa Athy were among the crowd of protesters on Wednesday night, and were delighted with the turnout.

A statement from the schools SNAs said: “Our message to the Government is quite clear, we will continue to fight for recognition for the work we do and against the unfair treatment from our own Government.” 

Scoil Mhicil Naofa SNAs included that the proposed cuts debacle has highlighted a lack of professional protection for SNA posts nationwide.

“Our particular concern is that seniority now appears to account for nothing. Long-serving, experienced SNAs have no protection, no recognition of service, and no job security.

"Hours and posts are being removed and redistributed at random, creating instability, uncertainty, and deep distress among staff. 

"This lack of security undermines morale and treats SNAs as expendable rather than as skilled professionals who are essential to the daily functioning of inclusive education.” “SNAs are not being seen or treated as professionals, despite the critical role they play in supporting some of the most vulnerable children in our education system. This situation is unsustainable and unjust.” 

The SNAs thanked Mark Wall TD, cllr Aoife Breslin and cllr Mark Leigh for their ongoing support.

While government promised it would pause the planned changes, communities across Kildare want to champion the message that actions speak louder than words.

Following the well-attended protest, Deputy Mark Wall said: “The sheer number of people who attended the protests across Kildare in Athy and Newbridge showed just how truly valued our SNAs are not just in our classrooms but in our communities.

“The U-turn announced by government is as a result of the collective action of SNAs, unions, parents, schools and the wider public in fighting for inclusive education. But we didn’t just wake up and suddenly come face to face with this crisis, it is a result of Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael policy."

Deputy Wall cited a “serious lack” of special education investment, adding that Ireland needs more SNAs and associated supports.

“I welcome government’s new found energy and commitment to special education. But words are not enough, now we need to see real action and engagement with SNAs and unions. Because what was announced is still a pause. A pause is not a plan."

Deputy Wall pointed to government schemes and policies such as the redeployment scheme and the workforce plan which all must be looked at and revised in line with SNA needs.

Deputy Wall also brought attention to the droves of worried patents of children with additional needs that are struggling to secure special class places for their children, something he called “a failure of government policy”. 

He concluded: “The Labour Party will not stop campaigning on this; government think they can throw €19 million at serious structural issues in special education and shut the debate down. We must keep the momentum going.”