Plans for SNA Summer Camps in Waterford have been confirmed for 2026, following strong demand from families across the county.
The update comes after the issue was raised at a recent meeting of Waterford City and County Council by Fianna Fáil Councillor Eamon Quinlan.
Parents had been seeking clarity on whether the popular Special Needs Assistant (SNA) supported camps would return this summer.
High Demand from Families Across Waterford
Councillor Quinlan said many families rely on the programme, particularly for children who cannot attend mainstream camps without additional support.
“Parents are planning for the summer and they are googling if we are bringing back the SNA supported Summer Camps… and there is nothing there.”
He described the initiative as a “runaway success” since its introduction, noting that Waterford was among the first counties to deliver such a programme.
Importance of Inclusive Summer Activities
The camps provide opportunities for children aged 6 to 12 with mild to moderate additional needs to take part in summer activities alongside their peers.
Quinlan highlighted the emotional impact on families when places are not available:
“If she can’t get him into an SNA supported Summer Camp then he has to watch his siblings go off… it is heartbreaking.”
He added that inclusive programmes are vital to ensure children feel part of their communities.
Council Confirms SNA Summer Camps in Waterford Set to Return
Following the council meeting, it has now been confirmed that SNA Summer Camps in Waterford will proceed.
The camps will be delivered by Waterford Sports Partnership, with support from local partners including community groups and organisations such as the GAA.
The initiative allows children with additional needs to participate in structured summer camps across the county.
Strong Community Support Behind Programme
Councillor Quinlan welcomed the confirmation and praised the collaboration involved in delivering the camps.
“This is amazing news… it just goes to show how much demand there is for this.”
He noted that the programme depends on contributions from a wide range of stakeholders, including SNAs, community groups and organisations such as SETU and Kingfisher.
Parents Advised to Monitor Registration
Due to high demand, places for the camps typically fill quickly, often within an hour of opening.
Parents are being advised to monitor the Waterford Sports Partnership website for registration details once they are released.
Growing Model for Other Counties
Quinlan also said other local authorities have expressed interest in replicating Waterford’s approach.
He suggested the programme could serve as a model for inclusive summer activities nationwide.
For the latest Waterford News and Sport, tune into WLR News on the hour and download the WLR App for news on demand.
