ASTI - Ireland's main second level teachers union

The great majority of ASTI members are members of the Department's Superannuation Scheme for Secondary Teachers. The ASTI sees membership of the scheme as essential for all teachers who wish to make financial provision for their retirement. Membership is compulsory for all permanent teachers entering service since March 1996 and for all temporary wholetime teachers entering service in secondary schools since March 1996. It is also compulsory for all teachers in Department paid Pro-Rata Teaching posts (provided they are fully-qualified) and for all temporary wholetime teachers in Community and Comprehensive schools and colleges. Membership of the Scheme remains voluntary for permanent teachers who entered service prior to March 1996 and for temporary wholetime teachers who entered service in secondary schools prior to March 1996. Application forms for voluntary membership of the Superannuation Scheme are available on request from the Secondary Pensions Section, Department of Education and Science, Athlone, Co Westmeath (090648-3994).