ASTI defends ballot for industrial action

The ASTI has defended the decision to ballot members for industrial action. Picture: Danny Lawson

The Association of Secondary Teachers, Ireland (ASTI) has defended the decision to ballot its members for industrial action, with union members saying if a safe environment can't be provided, teachers and students should not be in school.

The union signalled its intention to ballot members over potential strike action amid fears about health and safety in schools. There are concerns about PPE and high-risk staff working in such an environment.