'); 'Our children are suffering': Parents of children with special needs tell government and unions to 'sort it out' Unions have said teachers’ concerns about their safety have not been eased by health officials. By Michelle Hennessy Tuesday 19 Jan 2021, 12:52 PM Jan 19th 2021, 12:52 PM 14,914 Views 44 Comments Image: Shutterstock Image: Shutterstock PARENTS OF CHILDREN with special needs have called for clarity on when their children will return to school as unions express concern about the safety of teachers and Special Needs Assistants (SNAs). Special education classes are due to return to schools on Thursday, but unions have said health officials have not adequately assured their members that it is safe to do so.