Irish Teachers' Union Warns of Imminent Strike as Second Day of Action Planned

The Association of Secondary Teachers Ireland (ASTI) has indicated that a planned teachers' strike next week is unlikely to be called off, with a second day of industrial action scheduled for later this month. ASTI General Secretary Linda Kelly stated that teachers are deeply frustrated with the government's approach to pay negotiations, particularly regarding the €1.2 billion allocated for public service pay in Budget 2027, which she deemed 'not fit for purpose'. The union's members are prepared to lose a day's wages to protest the government's failure to address the cost-of-living crisis affecting public sector workers. Widespread disruption is anticipated across schools and other public services.