Members Furious As TUI Discusses Pension Levy

Ireland's top teaching union is meeting today to discuss the proposed cuts in public spending announced this week.

The Teachers Union of Ireland (TUI) is threatening a campaign against the introduction of the pension levy for all public-sector workers, put forward this week by the government.

Today, a spokesman for the union said it is 'ruling nothing out' in terms of its response to the so-called pension levy adding that the union has been "inundated with calls and e-mails from members furious at the announcement".

The TUI claims the proposal, which will see an increase in pension contributions by Ireland's public servants, is effectively scape-goating the public sector for the problems in the economy and failing to target the wealthier sections of society.

The union believes the government should be tackling those who have benefited most from the Celtic Tiger and are in a much better position to bear the brunt of the crisis.

Speaking today, TUI President Don Ryan said: “We have received phone calls and e-mails from a large number of TUI members outraged by this latest imposition. The vast majority of these teachers and lecturers earn less than the expenses claimed by our government politicians.

"We are seeking an early meeting of the Public Services Committee of the ICTU with a view to considering a an extensive programme of action in opposition to the continued scapegoating of the public service."

(DW/BMcC)