University teachers' union advises acceptance of Croke Park deal

The union representing some university lecturers is recommending acceptance of the Croke Park deal after discussions with the…

The union representing some university lecturers is recommending acceptance of the Croke Park deal after discussions with the Department of Education.

Members of the Irish Federation of University Teachers rejected the deal last year but a re-ballot is under way. Acceptance of the deal by the union’s 2,000 members is widely expected.

The union has been forced to soften its opposition to the deal on public service reform after the department made it clear continued opposition would provoke a strong response, including possible pay cuts.

Its general secretary Mike Jennings said the union had received some “very significant and substantial clarifications’’ on the deal from the Department of Education.