Council backs Save Our SNAs campaign

A local councillor has backed the 'Alternative Circular' launched by the Save Our SNAs campaign, aimed at protecti ng and expanding the role of Special Needs Assistants (SNAs) beyond strictly defined primary care needs.

The proposal seeks to counter perceived restrictive interpretations of SNA roles and ensure broader access for neurodivergent students in the wake of the government's “disastrous handling” of the issue earlier this year.

“There are serious shortcomings in the provision of autism services in Cavan, and this is true also in our schools,” said Sinn Féin's Stiofán Conaty, who told the April monthly meeting of Cavan County Council that he had been contacted by a young lady involved with Save Our SNAs.“This circular intends on keeping in mind students who may struggle invisibly,” he said, adding that the existing circular from 2014 needs replacing. “It was at the root of the problem, and it is no longer fit for purpose. The purpose of the Save Our SNAs Alternative Circular is to restate and clarify the role of the Special Needs Assistant within the context of inclusive education in Irish schools.”

Outlined in this 'Alternative Circular' is the clear articulation of the SNA role, including the emphasis on supporting additional care needs, facilitating participation, promoting independence, and assisting pupils in developing emotional regulation and communication skills.It furthermore affirms the importance of maintaining the delineation of responsibilities within schools and it offers recognition of emotional regulation, communication and social inclusion as central aspects of pupil well-being and educational participation.

“It also gives more focus on collaboration between teachers, SNAs, school leadership, parents and guardians and external professionals as an essential element of effective inclusive practice,” said Cllr Conaty.“Above all, it gives a greater recognition of the vital contribution that Special Needs Assistants make in supporting pupils with significant and enduring additional needs to access education and participate fully in school life. This alternative circular was designed to ensure that every pupil can access education in a supportive, respectful and inclusive environment.”

He concluded by saying that a lot of work has gone into producing the new alternative document, noting with respect to the previous circular: “When something is not fit for purpose, it needs to be amended or replaced. And so with this motion, I am seeking the support from colleagues in calling for the adoption and implementation of this alternative circular, which will place the issue of SNA provision in Irish schools within a more comprehensive and up to date framework.”

The motion was supported by Fine Gael's Trevor Smith, by Fianna Fáil's Áine Smith, and by Cllr Conaty's party colleague, Damien Brady.