There has been a lot of back-and-forth between our teachers' unions and the Department of Education in recent times, and teachers and students alike are waiting with baited breath to see what happens next following a major vote today.
According to reports, the Secondary Teachers’ Union (ASTI) has voted in favour of ceasing working the additional 33 ‘Croke Park hours’ introduced under the Haddington Road Agreement.
A whopping 68.5% of union members voted in favour of ceasing work during these allotted hours, from September onwards.
The decision does not appear to have gone down well with the Department of Education, with representatives confirming that the vote could have serious implications for union members.
Indeed, members could lose payments due to be restored to them, as well as other key benefits if they go ahead with today’s decision.
If the Government does decide to invoke these penalties, the ASTI may send its members on strike, resulting in school closures across the country.
ASTI members are due to meet tomorrow to discuss what today's decision means and what their next course of action will be.
What are your thoughts on the latest update?
