It comes following news that teaching unions here in Northern Ireland have accepted a revised pay offer of 5.5% for 2024/25, including an independent review into workload.
The Strangford MLA, who is also Chair of Stormont’s Education Committee, has said: “It’s been a long time coming, but this is news will be warmly welcome right across the education sector, and I’m glad a resolution has been reached and strike action averted.
“Now, however, we must see meaningful action from the Education Minister in terms of rolling out the changes that have been promised, particularly in relation to concerns around workload. Teachers don’t want or need more talking shops – they need real delivery, and that work starts now.
“For Alliance, at every point during this process, our priority has always been ensuring that teachers receive fair compensation for the crucial role they play in the lives of our children and young people, as well as fair working conditions that enable them to do their jobs to the highest possible standard. All possible efforts must be taken to prevent any action short of strike in the future.
“Going forward, myself and my colleague Michelle Guy will continue holding the minister to account on the delivery of commitments made, including that of addressing concerns around workload.”