General secretary calls for ASTI unity

ASTI general secretary Charlie Lennon has called for unity among the union’s membership as it continues its campaign for a 30% pay rise.

Speaking at the ASTI’s annual conference in Co Donegal, Mr Lennon expressed his frustration that the long-running dispute with the Government has failed to achieve concrete results.

"We need to re-emphasise the traditional trade union values of mutual support and solidarity,” he said. "

We need to re-establish a strong, united and focused organisation which has the support and strength of a committed, united and unified membership.

To do this, we have to concern ourselves with the issues that matter most to our members. We have to consult them effectively and respond to their views.

"Mr Lennon has previously been criticised by some ASTI members for suggesting that there is a faction trying to split the union."