FUTURE negotiations on pay and early retirement deals for teachers could be placed in jeopardy following a recommendation by the standing committee of the Association of Secondary Teachers, Ireland (ASTI), to reject Partnership 2000, the successor to the Programme for Competitiveness and Work.
The standing committee decided before Christmas to reject Partnership 2000, which provides the framework for future negotiations on pay rises and changes in schools. The rejection will be considered by the ASTI's central executive committee (CEC) on Saturday when it meets to discuss the package. Under ASTI rules, only the CEC can make a recommendation to membership or order a ballot. An ASTI spokesman declined to comment on the reasons for the rejection.
The standing committee has considerable authority in general union matters, but its view on Partnership 2000 is only one of a number of opinions to be taken into account by the CEC. Despite this, its recommendation of rejection will have a significant effect on the CEC's debate.
Partnership 2000 has also proved contentious with the Teachers' Union of Ireland. At a meeting of the TUI national executive last week, a motion to reject it was defeated by only 10 votes to nine.
Some TUI executive members are concerned that the Department of Education is attempting to use the package to introduce business management principles to the education system, since it requires flexibility and change for teachers if they are to receive even basic pay rises. There is concern at the future role of the conciliation and arbitration system.
The TUI membership will vote on Partnership 2000 this month, although the executive has not made any recommendation to its membership on acceptance or rejection.
The Irish National Teachers' Organisation (INTO) has said it will not put Partnership 2000 to ballot until the outstanding elements of the current PCW are implemented.