Talks between representatives of the ASTI and Labour Relations Commission (LRC) in an attempt to pave the way for pay discussions and an end to strike action have been adjourned until tomorrow.
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Mr Tom Pomphrett of the LRC
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There were no statements or reactions forthcoming from the participants as they left the meeting.
The negotiations began this afternoon after the ASTI agreed last week to suspend proposed strike action and meet with the LRC in an effort to resolve the deadlock between the teachers' union and the Department of Education.
It is undestood the focus of the meeting has been on developing a forum for negotiations acceptable to both parties.
Spokesman for the department, Mr Brian Duggan, said earlier today the main focus of this afternoon’s meeting would be to find a suitable process to facilitate pay negotiations, rather than discuss the claims themselves.
Mr Tom Pomphrett of the LRC told ireland.comhe was uncertain when the talks would be concluded despite the imposition of a one-week deadline by the ASTI. He said it would be "very difficult to do it within a week" as the two sides are still divided over the benchmarking issue.
The benchmarking system would aim to bring teachers’ pay in line with that of private sector employees. The ASTI, however, remains adamant in its demand for a 30 per cent pay increase, according to Mr Pomphrett.
Today’s talks are hoped to bring about an end to the secondary school teachers’ strikes which have caused disruption in schools around the country since last November.
A schedule of one-day strikes drawn up by the ASTI and which comenced last week were due to continue into April. However, towards the end of last week the union agreed to suspend the action and enter into talks with the LRC.
Representatives of the Departments of Education and Finance are also attending the negotiations.