Secondary school teachers vote for industrial action

Secondary teachers are to strike with ASTI members voting overwhelmingly in favour of industrial action.

The union said 80% of their members voted in favour of a strike.

The union's standing committee will meet tomorrow to discuss the implications of the vote and forms of strike action.

ASTI President Ed Byrne said it shows the depth of feeling among teachers over pay and conditions.

The National Association of Principals and Deputy Principals (NAPD) have called for a quick resolution to the dispute.

The NAPD said: "The primary interest of the NAPD is to look after the best interest of all our members, teachers and students. We need to ensure that a positive atmosphere is maintained within our staff rooms and schools at all times.

"We are confident that this issue will be resolved and we are asking that all efforts are made to bring the matter to a satisfactory conclusion without delay."

The Education Minister says he's disappointed with the ASTI's decision to vote for strike action.

Richard Bruton says he believes dialogue is the only way to end the dispute and he hopes the union will engage with the Department.

Up to 400 schools could be forced to close next month if teachers withdraw from supervision duty.