Fórsa has issued a formal non-cooperation instruction to special needs assistant (SNA) members following the recent ballot, in which members rejected the SNA Workforce Development Plan (SNAWDP) and the associated Circular 0032/2026. 

In a message to SNAs issued on Wednesday 29th July, Fórsa’s head of Education Andy Pike advised that, in line with that democratic decision of members, the union is now responding to any attempt to introduce changes to terms and conditions that have not been agreed. Members are therefore instructed not to cooperate with the provisions set out in the Circular until further notice. 

Andy explained: “This instruction means members should not sign any new contracts arising from the Circular. Members are also instructed not to undertake duties linked to school community time, including participation in student planning and review processes, and not to engage with learning and development activities introduced under the new arrangements. Existing working practices, in line with current contracts of employment, should continue,” he said. 

Andy added that school principals and boards of management will be formally advised that the non-cooperation instruction is in place. 

In the coming weeks, Fórsa will consult with members on the potential for further discussions with the Department of Education to improve specific elements of the SNAWDP and the Circular. 

Separately, Andy advised that members should note that a national industrial action ballot on pay opens next week, on Tuesday 4th August. If members support industrial action, this will include a boycott of any new working practices or contractual changes introduced without agreement, including a boycott of the new SNA contract and Circular 0032/2026. 

Members are asked to observe this instruction fully until further notice. 

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