ASTI slams minister's interference in union ballot

The Association of Secondary Teachers has criticised Education Minister Noel Dempsey for appealing directly to ASTI members to support the Government's proposals regarding payment for supervision and substitution duties.

The ASTI executive has recommended that its members reject the deal, but Mr Dempsey has called a series of meeting with teachers nationwide in an effort to secure a "yes" vote.

The ASTI had originally backed the supervision and substitution arrangements negotiated between the Government and other teaching unions.

However, it withdrew its support after receiving confirmation from the Government about payment and entitlements for working on an on-call basis.

ASTI general secretary Charlie Lennon said the minister's interference in the matter is unnecessary because the union will supply its members with all the information they need to make a balanced judgement on the proposals.

The ballot is due to take place next month.