November 9th 2023

Dear Parents/ Guardians,

The Education Authority (EA) has warned of expected disruption to some school services as a result of industrial action notified by various non-teaching unions.

This will consist of action short of strike as well as a full day of strike action on Thursday 16th

November 2023.

I am writing to outline the expected impact on our school and how strike action will affect St

Mary's Star of the Sea Ps.

When a strike takes place, those taking strike action stop work and withdraw their labour. A detailed risk assessment to determine whether it is possible to operate the school safely during the strike has been conducted that considers the impact that the action will have on the health and safety of pupils, staff and visitors, and whether the school can run a full or amended curriculum.

As the Principal, I [and the Board of Governors] have determined the following:

School will close at 12 noon on Thursday November 16th.

We will not, therefore be able to provide dinner for any pupils as the canteen will be closed.

There will be no After School Activities or Clubs.

Clearly, this is a difficult situation, which will cause disruption. I ask you, however, to be understanding.

Strike action is very unusual and taking the step of strike action is not something that any member of the school staff undertakes lightly.

Those on strike will have thought long and hard about their decision and will also lose pay for the period that they are on strike.

Best wishes.

Gerard Barrett

Principal