Proof that SNA cuts are seriously impacting our children, says O' Súilleabháin

A new study offers proof that cuts to special needs assistants and the services they provide are having a real and deadly impact upon children with disabilities according to a local teacher and Sinn Féin spokesperson.  Fionntán O' Súilleabháin said that the latest ERSI study showed that the governments irresponsible approach to snas was now taking its full toll on our children.

Mr O' Súilleabháin said;

"A new study by the ERSI shows that while 7% of children without any learning disabilities find school difficult, this figure rises to 12% when looking at children with special needs in mainstream schools.  This is the proof that we always knew would come which clearly shows the devastating impact that the governments slashing of the sna budget is having on our children."

"Cuts to special education services in recent years are having a terrible knock on effect right through the system.  It will only get worse.  42,500 students will need additional help from this September, a rise of over 4000.  22,000 pupils will also need support from special needs assistants.  There will simply not be enough help there to reach every child and many will fall through the cracks because this government has not prepared the system adequately."

"These figures are shocking but unfortunately not surprising.  The cuts that have been made will continue to affect children in the system for years to come and will only increase if the government pushes further cuts to special education in budget 2014."