Colin Crawford MLA, Ulster Unionist Education spokesperson, today welcomed the agreement reached between the Department of Education and Northern Ireland Teachers' Council (NITC) on a new pay deal of 5.5% for 2024/25, describing it as a "vital step forward for educators, students, and the future of Northern Ireland’s education system." 

The agreement, which follows months of negotiations, addresses long-standing concerns over fair compensation for teaching staff, ensuring better working conditions, and recognising the critical role educators play in shaping the next generation.

In a statement, Mr Crawford said, "This pay deal is a testament to the dedication of our teaching staff, who have worked tirelessly under challenging conditions to deliver quality education for our children. Fair pay is not just about recognising their hard work - it’s about valuing education as the foundation of our society. I commend both the Department of Education and the teaching unions for reaching this agreement, which will help retain and attract talented educators while providing stability for schools across Northern Ireland."

Key aspects of the agreement include:
- Improved pay scales to reflect the increasing demands on teaching professionals.
- Commitments to reducing workload pressures, ensuring teachers can focus on delivering high-quality education.
- Enhanced support for professional development, empowering educators to advance their skills and careers.

Mr Crawford emphasised that this agreement is a positive development for Northern Ireland’s schools, where teacher retention and recruitment have been pressing issues. "By investing in our educators, we are investing in the future of our young people. This deal sends a clear message that teaching is a valued profession, and I hope it marks the beginning of further collaborative efforts to strengthen our education system."