Teachers in Northern Ireland have overwhelmingly rejected a proposed 5.5% pay increase for the 2024/25 academic year, setting the stage for industrial action short of strike. The offer, presented by employers including the Department of Education (DE), was received by teaching unions last Friday. Despite acceptance by the National Association of Head Teachers (NAHT), the Northern Ireland Teachers Council (NITC), which represents all teaching unions, declined to ratify the proposal.
The rejection signifies widespread dissatisfaction among educators, who are poised to initiate action short of strike starting Monday, 10 February. This development follows a significant vote from the NASUWT union, where nearly 80% of its approximately 6,000 members opposed the offer. The pay proposal also included specific stipulations regarding the number of days and hours teachers would be expected to work, fueling discontent among union members.
Mark McTaggart, the Northern Secretary of the Irish National Teachers' Organisation (INTO), expressed the concerns of educators.
"Members and school leaders have informed us that they were unhappy with the perceived restrictions included in last week's offer" – Mark McTaggart
He further emphasized the continued commitment to negotiations.
"INTO remains committed to finding an uplift that is acceptable to our members. In the meantime, Action short of Strike will commence on Monday 10 February" – Mark McTaggart
The financial implications of the offer were considerable, with an estimated cost to the Northern Ireland Executive of approximately £49 million. Despite this, teachers viewed the offer as insufficient, particularly in light of additional workload conditions imposed. An unnamed teacher highlighted this sentiment:
"Not a pay issue, but a workload issue" – Unnamed teacher
The NASUWT union echoed this stance, emphasizing the solidarity among its members.
"This result sends a clear message that our members are united in their demand for a fair and reasonable settlement without needless conditions being imposed on teachers" – NASUWT union
"We will continue with this action until a reasonable and fair deal is achieved for teachers" – NASUWT union
"Your voice matters, and together, we will work towards achieving the outcome you deserve" – NASUWT union
The impending Action Short of Strike (ASOS) is a strategic move aimed at applying pressure on negotiations without fully disrupting educational services. This approach allows teachers to express their dissatisfaction while maintaining their professional responsibilities.
"Action Short of Strike (ASOS) will commence on Monday 10 February" – NASUWT union
The NITC's decision not to accept the offer underscores the unity among teaching unions in their pursuit of improved conditions. While NAHT's acceptance indicates some level of agreement, it does not influence the overall stance taken by NITC.
