Objections to planned cuts in the education budget that could affect many children have been raised in the Dail.

RTE reports that Independent TD Finian McGrath asked Enda Kenny why services for children with special needs are being reduced.

According to the news provider, 200 Special Needs Assistants (SNA) positions will be lost in order to comply with the terms of the country's financial bailout from the International Monetary Fund and the EU.

Mr McGrath called on the Taoiseach to reverse the changes - which are due to come into effect this week - and questioned whether the consequences of the move have been fully thought through.

In response, Mr Kenny stated that no school will lose all its SNA support and any pupil that requires assistance will still receive the help they need.

Earlier this month, the Irish National Teachers Organisation also criticised the planned cuts, warning such budget reductions will harm the most vulnerable members of society.

Written by Donal Walsh
 

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