The first opportunity in over 15 years to renegotiate the special needs assistant (SNA) contract is in sight if the proposed new public service agreement is accepted in ballots of members, according to Fórsa.

The proposed deal, Building Momentum, requires the education department to consult with Fórsa about the possible updating of the contract, including the appropriate use of the contracted 72 hours.

Fórsa’s head of education Andy Pike says the contract requires modernisation in several areas, including the obligation to be available for 72 hours for SEN-related duties.

“The SNA role has changed since 2005, and continues to develop on foot of initiatives like the NCSE review of the SNA scheme, the roll-out of the schools inclusion model and the frontloading of SNA allocations. Fórsa will seek changes to various elements of the existing contract including minimum qualifications, continuous professional development (CPD), training, and professional recognition,” he said.

The union already has a claim for the abolition of the 72 hours lodged in the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC).

“While the proposed agreement doesn’t abolish the hours, it does commit the education department to a serious review of the use of the hours, which will open up a wider discussion on the role of SNAs,” said Andy.

The 72 hours were introduced under the 2010 Croke Park agreement, and replaced an existing contractual liability to work 12 days during school holidays.

It’s never been more important – or more easy – to get the protections and benefits of union membership. Join Fórsa HERE or contact us HERE.