Education Minister expresses disappointment at decision to proceed with industrial action
Date published:
Education Minister Paul Givan has urged teaching unions to continue to engage in negotiations with
employers and to reconsider their decision to commence industrial action short of strike on 28 September.
Speaking following today’s announcement from the Northern Ireland Teaching Council (NITC) Paul Givan said:
"I am disappointed by today's announcement, particularly given the constructive discussions that took place during July and August and the meaningful progress that was made across the majority of the issues under discussion.
"While further work is required on a small number of issues, I believe there remains scope to reach a negotiated agreement. My Department remains committed to the process and stands ready to continue discussions aimed at finding a way forward.
"I recognise the pressures facing teachers and the wider education workforce, and my Department has been working to deliver practical measures to support them. My priority remains securing the best possible outcomes for children and young people. I hope all parties will continue to engage constructively to build on the progress already made, with the aim of reaching agreement and minimising any potential impact on schools and pupils."
Notes to editors:
- Media enquiries to the Department of Education Press Office at Press.Office@education-ni.gov.uk
2. For more news from the Department of Education, you can follow us on our social media channels:
- X @Education_NI
- Facebook Department of Education NI
- Instagram de_northern_ireland
- LinkedIN Department of Education
3. The Executive Information Service operates an out-of-hours service for media enquiries only between 1800hrs and 0800hrs Monday to Friday and at weekends and public holidays. The duty press officer can be contacted on 028 9037 8110.