The Department of Education has still to deduct money from ASTI members five months after their series of strikes.
The decision, regarded as unprecedented by industrial relations experts, was confirmed by the Department of Education last night.
In contrast to ASTI, other public service workers such as nurses and paramedics had money deducted after lengthy strike action two years ago. And, unlike ASTI, these other groups also provided emergency cover.
ASTI members should have lost up to five days' pay. Last December money was deducted after they withdrew from supervision duties, and this led to the closure of schools. However, this money was later repaid. They lost money for strike days in 2000. In a statement the Department said: "No decision has been taken on when the monies will be deducted."
Sources said the money would be deducted, but no decision had been taken on timing.
One source said the Department held off in case any deduction would antagonise ASTI members during the Leaving Cert in June.
Should it fail to deduct any pay the Department will, however, have to explain this to the Comptroller and Auditor General, who compiles an annual report on public spending.
Sources said the Department was also reluctant to antagonise the ASTI given ongoing discussions on the contentious issue of pay for substitution and supervision.
In a softening of its position the ASTI, which had boycotted these talks, is maintaining "contact" on the issue. The Teachers' Union of Ireland is demanding £2,200 for this work, which has traditionally been done by teachers on a voluntary basis.
Renewed strike action by ASTI in the new school year looks increasingly unlikely, especially if the supervision issue is settled. Yesterday the National Parents' Council (post-primary) held a meeting with ASTI leaders. A parent leader, Ms Marie Danaswamy, said it was a positive meeting and both sides hoped to meet again.
She said ASTI had assured her there would be no disruption of exams this school year. However, non-co-operation with Department initiatives was still a possibility.
Meanwhile the Minister for Education, Dr Woods, has announced the creation of 50 new permanent posts in second-level schools.
Dr Woods said 103 schools would benefit directly from these new guidance posts.
The move was given a cautious welcome last night by Mr Michael Moriarty, general secretary of the Irish Vocational Education Association (IVEA), which represents vocational schools. He said it was only a first step.