The outgoing president of the ASTI, Mr Pat Cahill, has suggested in his final address that the union consider a merger with its rival, the TUI.
Mr Cahill last night told a meeting of its standing committee in Carrick-on-Shannon that he believed a merger would help promote teacher unity.
Speaking to The Irish Times, Mr Cahill said there were "market forces" in operation against the interests of teachers, and it was necessary to "wake up a sleeping giant".
Mr Jim Dorney, general secretary of the TUI, said last night it would be receptive to any call for a merger .