TUI head warns of pre-Christmas strike in Junior Cert row

The General Secretary of the Teachers Union of Ireland John McGabhann has said secondary school teachers may go on strike before Christmas, in a row over reforms to the Junior Cert.

It comes after talks broke down yesterday.

Teachers rejected new proposals that included a final exam in 3rd year - accounting for 60% of junior cycle marks to be marked externally.

Education Minister Jan O'Sullivan has asked teachers to reconsider the Junior Cert proposals and avoid strike action.

The Executive Council of the TUI and the Standing Committee of the ASTI will both meet on Friday to decide how to proceed.