Association of Secondary Teachers, Ireland

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Association of Secondary Teachers, Ireland (ASTI)

The ASTI is a trade union for secondary school teachers in Ireland. It is part of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) and represents about 18,500 teachers in schools that educate around 80% of all second‑level students.

What it does
- Advocates for teachers on education issues and working conditions
- Provides legal protection and supports continuing professional development
- Supports research for teachers and offers industrial relations help
- Runs a Credit Union (established in 1984)

History and people
- Founded on 17 March 1909 in Fermoy by teachers including Patrick Kennedy; notable early members included Thomas MacDonagh and Éamon de Valera
- In 1911, a women’s section was created (Women Teachers’ Association)
- The union’s aim has been to raise the status of teachers and improve education and conditions

Structure
- The General Secretary runs daily operations and national policy
- The President is elected annually from practising teachers and serves a term starting 1 August; the President takes leave from teaching during the term
- The General Secretary is a full‑time appointed position

Location and affiliations
- Headquarters: Dublin, Ireland
- Affiliations: ICTU, Education International, European Trade Union Committee for Education

The ASTI continues to represent and support second‑level teachers across Ireland.