Teachers' strike: Day of action in coming week is all but inevitable

The commencement of talks between ASTI and Department of Education officials today should not be seen as a bright light of hope for resolution of their pay dispute, writes Niall Murray

While any attempts at sorting out their differences will be welcome, both sides will have to be seen to concede something if there is to be any breakthrough.

The ASTI insists that the idea of being unable to negotiate any deal outside the Lansdowne Road Agreement (LRA) has been the mantra of Education Minister Richard Bruton’s officials in recent meetings.