Education department 'deeply disappointed' at escalation of union action

NASUWT toughens response to dispute over pay and workload

The Department of Education, Sport and Culture says it's 'deeply disappointed' at the escalation of industrial action by a teaching union on the Isle of Man.

The NASUWT confirmed it would take action short of a strike as schools returned after the summer break.

It follows a long-running dispute over pay and workload and means its members will not undertake break duties or cover staff absences - planned or otherwise - from today.

Geraldine O'Neil is the local negotiating secretary for the union:

DESC says the timing of the move is especially disappointing considering it's so soon after pupils returned to the classroom - and with a meeting scheduled this week.  

The department says it will continue to make every effort to keep schools open, and safe, for all concerned.

No further comment will be made until after the funeral of Her Majesty The Queen, on Monday, 19 September.