Headteachers and deputy headteachers are to be balloted on potential industrial action following a dispute with the education department.
The National Association of Head Teachers announced the move after its senior leadership backed a formal ballot in an indicative poll.
The decision follows an emergency meeting of the union’s Isle of Man executive, which unanimously recommended the step.
The NAHT cited concerns over the “misuse of disciplinary proceedings,” “disregard of agreed policies,” and “victimisation of its officials” as reasons for the ballot.
The union’s national executive committee authorised the formal postal ballot, which will open on Monday July 7 and close on Monday August 11.
Dispute
Rob Kelsall, NAHT’s assistant general secretary, had previously raised a formal collective dispute with the Isle of Man government in May.
Commenting on the ballot, Mr Kelsall said: “This wasn’t a road we wanted to have to go down, but we were left with little choice due to the inaction of the Isle of Man government.”
“In these circumstances, we are pleased school leaders have indicated their support for a ballot on industrial action to defend the basic employment rights of themselves and their colleagues.”
“This is about standing up for the safety, dignity, and fair treatment of our members in the face of disgraceful treatment by the education department which may well constitute unlawful conduct.”
“Of course, we remain ready to hold further talks with the Isle of Man government to resolve these issues, but it must be willing not just to listen but also to act upon our serious concerns.”
The union outlined four key concerns in its communication to members:
- Victimisation of NAHT members, potentially breaching protected employment rights.
- Breaches of the Fairness at Work Policy, including failures in fairness and respect.
- Misuse of disciplinary procedures, contrary to professional development principles.
- Breaches of the Code of Conduct for Public Servants, including leadership failures.
The outcome of the ballot will determine the next steps in the dispute.
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