Teachers in Ireland have voted to avoid industrial action regarding spending cuts on special needs support in primary schools.

Members of staff decided not to pursue strikes against the government's plans to reduce expenditure on assistants to help children with learning disabilities after general secretary of the Irish National Teachers' Organisation reminded them the Croke Park agreement does not allow for industrial action.

The Irish Times reported her as saying there is not "available means" for striking under the deal, adding: "We have to be truthful and honest - industrial action puts us in direct conflict with the agreement to protect pay of teachers."

School staff have been angered by the government's decision to pause applications for special needs support, restricting the number of assistants in classrooms.

Sheila Wayman, writing for the publication, said this move would affect children with learning difficulties and other pupils as demand for teachers' time and attention will increase.

Written by Donal Walsh  

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