Opposition urges Ahern to intervene in ASTI row

Fine Gael has again called on the Taoiseach to intervene in the pay dispute between the ASTI and the Government.

The party's education spokesman Michael Creed said Education Minister Michael Woods is now "damaged goods" in the eyes of many ASTI members.

He said the Minister's judgement had been found wanting in many areas of the row, such as the decision to dock pay from striking teachers. He also criticised the Minister's decision to visit Malaysia at a critical point in the stand-off.

Meanwhile, the Government's contingency plan for this year's State exams goes into operation today.

National newspapers are carrying advertisements seeking the 4,500 exam supervisors required.

Advertisements inviting applications for the post of exam markers are not expected until after Easter.

The second phase of the ASTI dispute begins tomorrow with a two-day teachers' stoppage.