Teacher unions 'asked to hold separate talks'

Posted by SchoolDays Newshound on 15/05/2013. Teacher unions 'asked to hold separate talks'

Tags: Teachers News

Teacher unions in Ireland will be asked to stage separate discussions following their ballots on industrial action.

This is according to Kieran Mulvey, the Labour Relations Commission Chief, who explained these talks are likely to take place early next week, the Irish Examiner reports.

Mr Mulvey said he is keen to talk with teacher unions, even though the government would like to see discussions reaching a conclusion sooner than they are likely to.

He stated: "They're not in danger of being left behind, we can segment their negotiations to a particular sector and a particular group for a defined period."

Written by Donal Walsh ADNFCR-2163-ID-801585525-ADNFCR

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(20-05-2013 07:33)

ASTI Press Release 18th May 2013

ASTI Executive votes to attend LRC talks

The Executive of the ASTI today decided to enter talks with the LRC along with the other teacher unions the INTO and the TUI.

The ASTI is currently balloting its members on industrial action to be taken in the event that the Government unilaterally cuts the pay or worsens the working conditions of teachers. The result of the ASTI ballot will be announced on Monday evening (May 20th).

ASTI members rejected the LRC (Croke Park II) Proposals by just under 85% last month.

Speaking today Pat King said that teachers have taken significant pay cuts averaging 14% and have made significant contributions in terms of additional work and flexibility. Young teachers on low incomes have been subjected to additional pay cuts. Teachers have fully complied with the Croke Park Agreement which has resulted in substantial savings for the Government.

Teachers have given a clear message. Teachers feel aggrieved that the Government is again demanding that public servants bear the brunt of the fiscal crisis. This is the context in which the ASTI is accepting the LRCs invitation to education sector talks, said Mr King.