Major protest against SNA cuts in Buncrana next week, with huge crowd expected

Parents, teachers, children and community members are set to gather in Buncrana next week to protest against proposed cuts affecting Special Needs Assistants (SNAs) in our schools.

The demonstration, entitled ‘Stop the Cuts, Support the Kids’, will take place at Market Square, Buncrana, on Wednesday, February 25, at 5pm, with everyone urged to attend in solidarity.

Nearby St Oran’s National School in Cockhill is one of the local schools already affected, having been told its allocation will be cut from four SNAs to two and a half, causing widespread concern.

The February 25 protest is aimed at highlighting the impact any reduction in SNA provision could have on vulnerable children – and it comes after the government announced a ‘pause’ to controversial school reviews in recent days.

However, SNAs and parents say a temporary pause is of little comfort to children in need.

The proposed cuts are coming on the back of outdated Department criteria, which effectively only recognises children with primary physical care needs as requiring SNAs, thereby excluding many kids with a range of other conditions such as autism, anxiety, dyslexia, dyspraxia and diabetes, among many others.

Inishowen protesters are calling for an “all out stop to SNA cuts”, reminding everyone that a “pause is not a win”.

SNAs play a vital role in assisting children with additional needs, helping them access education and participate fully in school life. Parents involved in organising the protest say they fear their children’s progress, wellbeing and inclusion could be affected if supports are reduced.

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Community members from Inishowen have been encouraged to attend in solidarity, with the event expected to include families, educators and supporters from across the area. Organisers say the aim is to send a clear message that supports for children with additional needs must be protected.

The gathering comes amid wider national concern about education resources and the future of special needs provision, with a major rally taking place outside the Dail on February 25 too.

Those behind the Buncrana event say they hope a strong turnout will demonstrate the community’s commitment to ensuring every child receives the support they need to succeed.