Northern Ireland teachers to start industrial action over excessive workload as negotiations fall short
Teachers in Northern Ireland will start a campaign of industrial action after the failure of negotiations to produce a satisfactory solution to long running concerns over excessive workload.
It comes after teacher unions recently balloted members over what they termed the Department of Education’s failure to deliver a “credible implementation plan” for the 27 recommendations of the Independent Review of Workload.
Teaching unions have said industrial action will start from 00:01 on Monday, September 28.
The National Association of Head Teachers (NAHT) NI said that whilst recent negotiations with employers and the Department of Education did “provide some movement”, they have still “been unable to produce a package capable of addressing the crisis facing school leadership”.
Dr Graham Gault, National Secretary of NAHT(NI), added: “The patience of our members has been tested beyond anything that could reasonably be expected.
"While we acknowledge the efforts made during negotiations, ultimately they have not delivered the immediate protection that school leaders require.”
Meanwhile, Ulster Teachers’ Union General Secretary, Jacquie White, stated: “The Ulster Teachers’ Union remains committed to finding a way forward through meaningful engagement and negotiation.
"We continue to believe that these issues can be resolved through agreement, but any agreement must deliver practical and lasting improvements for teachers, school leaders, and ultimately the young people they serve.”
However, Education Minister Paul Givan has urged teaching unions to continue to engage in negotiations with employers and to reconsider their decision to commence industrial action short of strike on 28 September.
Speaking following today’s announcement from the Northern Ireland Teaching Council (NITC), Mr Givan said: "I am disappointed by today's announcement, particularly given the constructive discussions that took place during July and August and the meaningful progress that was made across the majority of the issues under discussion.
"While further work is required on a small number of issues, I believe there remains scope to reach a negotiated agreement. My Department remains committed to the process and stands ready to continue discussions aimed at finding a way forward.
"I recognise the pressures facing teachers and the wider education workforce, and my Department has been working to deliver practical measures to support them. My priority remains securing the best possible outcomes for children and young people. I hope all parties will continue to engage constructively to build on the progress already made, with the aim of reaching agreement and minimising any potential impact on schools and pupils."