Minister ‘in denial’ on SNA cuts - Darren O’Rourke TD
Monday 16th February 2026, 16:06pm
Sinn Féin spokesperson on Education and Youth, Darren O’Rourke TD, has said that Minister Naughton is ‘in denial’ about SNA cuts which are affecting schools across the state.
Deputy O’Rourke called on Minister Naughton to act immediately, to reverse these proposed cuts, and to ensure that no child with additional needs will be left without this crucial support from September.
Teachta O’Rourke said:
“There is widespread panic and concern from parents, teachers and principals across the state following the announcement of SNA cuts stemming from the 2025/26 review of SNA allocations.
“Speaking on RTÉ News at One today, Minister Naughton, said roughly half of the reviews of SNA allocations have taken place, with the rest expected to be complete by the end of March 2026.
“The Minister is in denial about the facts on the ground. Schools across the state are reporting significant SNA cuts – and more are to follow. To point to the appeals process or suggest that teachers will be in a position to make up for the supports lost, is simply incredible. It is not going to happen.
“At the heart of this, is a rationing of an essential support. The strict interpretation of the ‘primary care needs’ criteria is brutal and unfair. It completely misunderstands the breadth of the SNA’s role. We know that there are ongoing contract negotiations around the expanded role of an SNA. This expanded role needs to be recognised now, not at some undefined time in the future.
“Minister Naughton has advised schools who are unhappy with the result of their SNA review to appeal the decision to the NCSE. This advice is wholly inadequate and hollow. The Minister must act urgently and change tack.
“I urge Minister Naughton to prevent any further cuts to SNA provision in schools across the state, and to reassure parents that every child with additional needs will have access to this essential support.”
