Good news for students and parents alike! The Post Primary Teachers’ Association (PPTA) has decided to put a pin in their industrial action. They’re now looking to resolve their dispute with the Government through arbitration.
Arbitration: A Fair and Objective Solution
Chris Abercrombie, the acting president of PPTA, is hopeful that an independent arbitration panel will review the issues “fairly and objectively”. The goal? To come up with recommendations that will form the basis of a new collective agreement. It’s like getting a fresh set of eyes to look at a tricky puzzle.
Strikes on Pause, Commitment in Play
In a statement, Abercrombie announced that all industrial action has been put on hold while the arbitration process is underway. This decision, he said, is a “gesture of our commitment to this process”.
Adjustment Period for Schools
However, Abercrombie acknowledges that schools may need some time to adjust to this change.
Looking Forward: A Settled Environment and Fair Outcome
The hope is that this process will allow teachers to return to a settled environment for the long term. The ultimate goal? A “fair and reasonable outcome for PPTA members”.
What’s Next in the Process?
- The PPTA will announce three independent arbitration panel members within the week.
- The arbitration process, which will be held in private, is expected to take three weeks from the time the panel convenes.
- An additional two weeks are expected for the Government to respond to the panel’s recommendations and for PPTA members to vote on a potential settlement.
So, while the strike action is on hold, the wheels are still turning. The PPTA has also confirmed that paid union meetings scheduled for next week will still take place. These meetings will be used to discuss the arbitration process and the move to individual employment agreements for all members from 1 July.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.