teachers vote for industrial action
(07 Mar 2009)
The members of the teacher unions, the ASTI, INTO and TUI, have voted to take industrial action, up to and including strike action, over the government’s handling of the economic crisis.
In a joint statement issued last night, the General Secretaries of the three unions said the decision had been a difficult one for teachers who as well as facing difficult economic circumstances are well aware of the impact of the economic crisis on the communities in which they live and work. The statement said the results showed clearly the anger of teachers at Government’s inequitable handling of the crisis.
“Teachers and other workers expected to be treated in a fair and equitable manner and that the well off in society would contribute their fair share,” the union leaders said. “Teachers want government to re-enter discussions to address the economic crisis with the ICTU on the basis that the burden must be shared by all sectors of society according to their means.” The statement expressed support for the Congress plan "There is a better, fairer way".
The Irish Federation of University Teachers is expected to begin balloting its members on industrial action next week.
Industrial action by teachers will be organised on a co-ordinated basis by the teacher unions in conjunction with the Irish Congress of Trade Unions.