On Tuesday 7th October, Budget 2026 was announced by Ministers Paschal Donohoe and Jack Chambers. While headline figures indicated an ‘unprecedented increase’ in funding for disability services, Fórsa expressed concern at the “paltry” increase in staffing and called for an evidence-based workforce plan for Children’s Disability Network Teams (CDNTs). 

Responding to the Budget, Fórsa national secretary Linda Kelly said: “Fórsa members working in Children’s Disability Services are incredibly disappointed by the paltry staff increases allocated in Budget 2026. 150 additional posts represent a mere 6% increase in staffing. We know that current demand for services far exceeds what this new allocation will provide.” 

She continued: “Fórsa members have been clear that the CDNT service requires an evidence based, properly funded, workforce plan. If disability rights are to be the centrepiece of this Government’s agenda, work needs to start on this as soon as possible.” 

“It’s all well and good to issue press releases about percentage increases, but if there is no plan as to how needs will be met, and where jobs are most needed, the allocated funding won’t change the dire picture on the ground.” 

Linda also raised concerns about the over-reliance on private providers to meet the current demand for assessments of needs (AON). Referring to the 20 million euro allocated for 6,500 privately provided AON, she said: “The Government is essentially creating a shadow economy of private provision in the disability sector.” 

“Why is such a significant amount of funding ringfenced for private provision when it could go into funding permanent posts in the public system? We know that this approach costs more and shortchanges everyone – workers, families and children.”