Second-level teachers, who are members of the ASTI, have voted overwhelmingly in favour of taking industrial action over delays in agreeing a new public sector pay deal.
ASTI members voted by 95% to 5% to take industrial action, up to and including strike action.
The turnout for the ballot was 56%.
Up to 20,000 ASTI second-level teachers will begin initial action involving withdrawal from selected activities such as the Croke Park Hours from Monday 5 October.
This will be escalated to strike action, alongside other public sector unions, on 14 October.
“Today’s ballot result gives a clear message to the Government about the depth of feeling amongst teachers,” said ASTI General Secretary Linda Kelly.
“Teachers’ pay has fallen significantly behind inflation. Meanwhile, the cost of living continues to climb.”
“The Government’s approach to date has shown scant regard for the day-to-day realities faced by teachers and other public service workers,” Ms Kelly said.
Public sector unions have accused the Government of failing to make a meaningful offer on pay.
The previous public sector pay deal expired on 30 June, and formal talks have yet to begin on a successor agreement.
The Department of Public Expenditure said unions and representative associations have made a decision to move to industrial action rather than engaging in substantive talks.
“It is deeply unfair on the general public for there to be significant disruption to their daily lives because unions are unwilling to sit down and engage constructively on a new agreement,” a spokesperson said.
“Officials remain ready and willing to engage and that should happen without any further delay.”
“Meaningful progress can only be achieved where both parties are open to constructive and sustained engagement, without preconditions on either side,” the department added.
