Woods to counteract ASTI action

The Education Minister, Michael Woods, said he has ordered contingency plans to be drawn up following the decision of teachers to withdraw from supervision and substitution duties.

Minister Woods said many people will be "utterly dismayed" that the ASTI has decided to take the action from March 4.

He claimed that because of a low turn-out, the action is only being backed by 31% of ASTI members.

The Minister insisted the Government offer of €34 per hour for supervision and substitution is generous.