Challenges related to vacant administrative positions across Education and Training Boards (ETBs) have persisted over recent months.
In May, the NETB branch issued a non-cooperation instruction to members, advising members to refuse to take on the work of vacant posts, as over 90 vacant administrative positions across ETBs were unsanctioned by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform (DPER).
Towards the end of June, members of a particular ETB contacted their branch representatives and Fórsa officials, to alert them that local management intended to engage agency staff to fill one of the national vacant positions, due to the ongoing absence of sanction from either the Department of Education or DPER.
Union members and reps were clear that this would represent a breach of agreed recruitment procedures, and following discussion with the branch, the union made it clear to local management that if the appointment of agency staff proceeded, Fórsa would have no option but to ballot members for industrial action, up to and including strike action.
A meeting was then held between management and NETB branch reps, led by local representatives. At that meeting, management were again advised that any move to circumvent either the branch's non-cooperation instruction or the provisions on recruitment procedures in Circular 37/2025 would result in a ballot of members. Faced with this prospect, local management decided not to proceed with the appointment of agency workers.
Fórsa official Barbara Anderson said: “We believe this represents a significant achievement for members and demonstrates the effectiveness of collective action in defending agreed recruitment procedures and protecting sanctioned employment opportunities within the ETB sector.”
She continued: “The response from members across the country has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing strong support for the branch's actions and the outcome achieved. We would encourage any members who encounter similar issues to contact their local workplace rep and the branch.”
“As a result of members taking a stand, the challenges faced by the sector arising from delays in the sanctioning of posts were acknowledged. Progress has been made and a number of critical posts have now been sanctioned. However, further posts still require sanctioning, and the Department have committed to engaging with education and training boards on this issue.”
Head of division Andy Pike said: “The national non-cooperation instruction for members in ETBs remains in place. The relevant Departments need to recognise that by refusing to sanction administrative posts they are putting staff under significant pressure, which will ultimately impact services. We are calling for immediate engagement on this issue.”
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