Trade Unions

Tuesday, 6 October 2026

Ceisteanna (292, 294)

Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh

Ceist:

292. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh den Aire Oideachais agus Óige [70644/26]

294. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh den Aire Oideachais agus Óige her Department's engagements with the teachers' trade unions to resolve the ongoing industrial dispute. [70629/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Youth

I propose to take Questions Nos. 292 and 294 together.

The Department notes that members of Fórsa, SIPTU and the AHCPS commenced industrial action on 30 September 2026, and that members of INTO and ASTI commenced industrial action from Monday, 5 October 2026. The department also notes that TUI will commence industrial action from Monday 12 October 2026.

The Department regrets this outcome, given officials in the Department of Public Expenditure Infrastructure Public Service Reform and Digitalisation (DPER), who centrally negotiate the pay agreement, remain available to engage intensively towards an agreement following the early withdrawal of the ICTU Public Services Committee from preliminary talks on a pay agreement earlier this summer.

It is important that both sides get around the table to work through the issues in dispute. Meaningful progress can only be achieved where both parties are open to constructive and sustained engagement, without preconditions on either side.

The Department is liaising with the relevant school management bodies to ensure schools are kept informed of developments, as well as planning for the operation of its own key services and those of its aegis bodies with the advice of DPER.