Scheme to redeploy SNAs to vacant posts 'seismic'
Special Needs Assistants will be redeployed to vacant posts from next September as part of a new scheme announced by Minister for Education Helen McEntee.
The Fórsa trade union has described the move as "seismic", saying it will provide certainty to thousands of workers.
More than 23,000 SNAs are employed in national and secondary schools around the country.
The announcement means they will not be made redundant if the number of posts allocated to a school changes, instead becoming eligible for redeployment elsewhere.
Ms McEntee told the Fórsa Educational Division conference that this would enhance services for children with significant care needs, as well as improve conditions for SNAs.
The union has welcomed the development but says further improvements are needed when it comes to pension provision for others in the education sector, including secretaries and caretakers.
Delegates have approved proposals to hold a ballot on industrial action in the event there is no movement in this regard shortly.
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