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Laois Mother Criticises Proposed SNA Cuts

Tuesday, 17 February 2026 15:04

Dan with his mum Aisling Donoher.

A review into SNA allocations is being paused after backlash.

The Department of Education is pausing the review into SNA allocations.

It follows complaints from schools and parents, reporting a reduction in the number of available posts.

However the Department insists the review process will lead to 1,700 more SNAs overall in the upcoming academic year.

Laois mum, Aisling Donoher's son Dan has spinal muscular atrophy and scoliosis.

His school in Rath was facing cuts from the review.

She says she's appalled at the suggestion of the move :

Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald criticised the process in the Dáil this afternoon:

Taoiseach Micheál Martin says the circumstances change every day and the appeals process is there for a reason:

A trade union for special needs assistants is welcoming the Government's decision to pause the review into allocations.

Fórsa says it provides an important opportunity for the Education Minister to engage with schools and other stakeholders.

The union believes this is a chance to discuss a better way to plan and manage SNA allocations into the future.

Fórsa represents over 18 thousand staff in schools and education settings.

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