The ASTI – which represents 17,000 second-level teachers – has voted to reject the Haddington Road Agreement by 63% to 37% per cent. 
 
Speaking about the outcome of the ballot today, ASTI General Secretary Pat King said: “Teachers’ message today is that they have given enough. All second-level teachers are delivering more with far less resources at a time when their pay has been cut significantly and their working conditions have greatly disimproved. The Haddington Road Agreement is a step too far. Second-level schools are at the tipping point, having been stripped of key supports and personnel. Young people’s education has been diminished and their futures compromised. Haddington Road means taking more from education and from teachers.”
 
In a simultaneous ballot on industrial action, ASTI members voted by 65% to 35% in favour of industrial action, up to and including strike action, in response to the Government’s decision to breach the Croke Park Agreement and impose draconian FEMPI legislation.
 
“Teachers are reluctant to take industrial action. However, the depth of feeling amongst ASTI members is evidenced in the ballot result on industrial action and this will be considered by ASTI Standing Committee at a meeting on Monday morning,” said Mr King.
 
ASTI Standing Committee will meet on Monday, September 23rd to consider the ballot outcomes.

Source ASTI Press Release 20th Sept 2013

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