Education Minister Paul Givan has expressed disappointment following announcements from several teachers' unions that they intend to ballot their members regarding potential industrial action over workload concerns.

The move follows the establishment of an Independent Review Panel by the Minister last year, which was tasked with conducting a comprehensive assessment of the workload pressures facing teachers and school leaders. In response to the panel's findings, the Department of Education published a Workload Action Plan at the end of April. This plan outlines practical, deliverable, and time-bound interventions designed to address and reduce workplace pressures.

Prior to the unions' announcements, the Minister provided written clarification and assurances to address specific queries raised by the organisations. Furthermore, officials from the Department and the Management Side held direct meetings with union representatives to discuss their outstanding concerns.

Despite this engagement, a number of unions have confirmed they will move forward with balloting their memberships. Education Minister Paul Givan said: "Since taking up this portfolio, addressing teacher and school leader workload has been a priority for me. Supporting the teaching profession is essential to retaining talented teachers, sustaining strong school leadership and ensuring long-term stability across our education system.

"The Workload Action Plan is a key part of my TransformED programme, which is focused on modernising education, strengthening the profession and improving outcomes for learners. It sets out a clear programme of reform to reduce unnecessary workload and build a more manageable and sustainable workload culture.

"Importantly, the Action Plan goes beyond the Independent Panel's recommendations in a number of areas and represents a strong, public commitment to teachers and school leaders.

"I am therefore genuinely disappointed that some unions have chosen to proceed to ballot. I would urge teachers and school leaders to consider carefully the full range of reforms and practical measures already in train. Meaningful and lasting progress on workload can only be achieved by working together and that work is well underway."