Teacher unions back idea of 'umbrella' organisation

The prospect of one "umbrella" teachers' union moved a step closer yesterday when the head of the Teachers' Union of Ireland (…

The prospect of one "umbrella" teachers' union moved a step closer yesterday when the head of the Teachers' Union of Ireland (TUI) called for greater unity between the existing teacher organisations.

In a move which was broadly supported by the other main teaching unions, the Irish National Teachers' Organisation (INTO) and the Association of Secondary Teachers Ireland (Asti), Jim Dorney said all three unions often dealt with the same issues.

"In the future, resources could undoubtedly be saved and expertise pooled if unions worked in a more structured manner together," he said in a statement.

"This would ensure more focused policies and campaigning, and would ensure an even better deal for the typical classroom teacher."

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As the country's teaching unions prepare to hold their annual conferences next week, Mr Dorney also said it may be possible to have one "umbrella" teacher union. Such a union might have three sections overlooking separate sectors.

Mr Dorney was commenting in advance of a motion at next week's TUI congress which called for it to develop common positions with the other teacher unions on matters of concern to all teachers. It added that every effort should be made by teachers to form a united front on these issues.

Similar motions will be debated at the INTO and Asti conferences.

The president of Asti, Susie Hall, yesterday said the formation of greater links between the unions was something which the union's executive had already discussed.The Teaching Council was a good example of how this could function.

However she stressed the importance of identifying areas of common interest to the unions rather than focusing too much on structures.

While she would have to consult with her members before any decision on an "umbrella" union, she was "very committed" to the idea of teacher unity.

INTO general secretary John Carr said he had always believed teachers have more to unite them than divide them. The emphasis should not be on structures but on areas of co-operation. He would "not rule out" the idea of an umbrella body.