The alarming cull of Special Needs Assistants (SNAs) in mainstream classes across Ireland is a grave injustice to our children, particularly those who rely heavily on these services to access the classroom and learn effectively. This issue is not just a statistic, but a personal crisis faced by countless families like ours. My child, among many, depends on the daily support of a dedicated SNA to navigate the school environment, engage with peers, and participate in educational activities. Without this support, children with special needs are at risk of being left behind, depriving them of their right to an inclusive education.

Special Needs Assistants play an indispensable role in our education system, advocating for and assisting children with physical, emotional, and educational challenges. According to a report by the Irish National Teachers' Organisation, reducing SNAs in schools directly impacts the quality and inclusivity of education. This devastating cutback doesn't just limit the potential of those who need additional help; it undermines the very ethos of equal opportunity for all students.

In recent years, Ireland has made strides in ensuring inclusive education, yet the current trend of withdrawing SNA support is a regression that threatens these advances. As of the 2022 academic year, there were over 18,000 SNAs employed nationwide, and yet the demand continues to outstrip supply. Parents and educators alike are voicing their concerns, demanding immediate action to halt this cull.

We are calling on the Department of Education to urgently reconsider and reverse decisions that reduce SNA allocations in schools. By maintaining and expanding SNA support, we can ensure that all children have the opportunity to thrive in a supportive and inclusive learning environment. We must protect the rights of students with special needs and commit to providing them with the resources they require to succeed.

Please join me in demanding a halt to the cull of Special Needs Assistants. Sign this petition to urge policymakers to prioritize the educational needs of all students, securing a future where no child is denied access to their rightful education due to a lack of support.