Fórsa has secured additional improvements in leave entitlements for SNAs, further bridging the disparity in leave for special needs assistants (SNAs).

Following representations by Fórsa, the union has received confirmation that sanction has been approved by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform for special leave with pay to be granted to SNAs representing Ireland at the Olympic Games, World Championship events, European Championship events, and pre-Olympic qualifying competitions. This leave is to be processed in the same manner as the arrangements outlined in the attached Circular Letter 09/03/1987. 

In addition, the Department also acceded to afford the same entitlement to SNAs as is for teachers in relation to representing Ireland abroad (paid), standing as a candidate in a General Election (unpaid) and standing as a candidate in a Local Election (paid).

Fórsa official Shane Lambert explained the importance of this union fought win.

“Whilst acknowledging the improvements won’t affect a significant number of SNAs and may be considered small in nature, it is significant in principal as it further supports the unions arguments that such differences in entitlements should not exist, unless there is an objective justification to support them,” he said.

The union has formally lodged a claim to bridge disparities between SNAs and other education colleagues across all leave types where there is no justification for the disparity to exist. Shane said that this item remains a “work in progress” and work is still ongoing.

“We will continue to press in the same way for equal treatment and provisions in items such as paid family illness leave, extra personal days and health and safety Leave for pregnant SNAs amongst others.  We expect further discussions with the Department on this in the coming months and will keep members informed of progress” he said.

There’s never been a better time to join a union, and it’s never been easier. Join Fórsa today.