Five major teaching unions in Northern Ireland have voted in favor of strike action, citing concerns over workload, funding, and the sustainability of school leadership.
The National Association of Head Teachers (NAHT) reported that 96% of its members voted for industrial action short of a strike, with 81% in favor of a full strike. Graham Gault, national secretary of NAHT (NI), stated that the vote reflects "the depth of concern across the profession" and that "the current situation is no longer sustainable."
Members of the Irish National Teachers' Organisation (INTO) also delivered a decisive mandate, with 91% supporting strike action and 99% backing action short of a strike. Mark McTaggart, INTO Northern Secretary, indicated that union members are prepared to engage in industrial action to achieve meaningful change, warning that "significant industrial action is likely to follow" without tangible progress.
The Ulster Teachers' Union (UTU) saw 71% of its members vote in favor of strike action and 95% in favor of action short of strike. UTU General Secretary Jacquie White emphasized the need for an "urgent resolution which leads to tangible change in schools and classrooms."
The National Education Union (NEU) has also indicated its intention to join preparations for industrial action.
These votes followed intensive talks over the summer period between the unions and employers. A spokesperson for the minister acknowledged the pressures on the profession and highlighted the establishment of a panel to identify workload issues, with a commitment from the department and employers to implement its recommendations. The minister also noted that the ballot for industrial action began before recent negotiations commenced and suggested the outcome "does not reflect the genuine efforts that have been made by all parties to find a resolution."