School secretaries with the Fórsa trade union have suspended their industrial action to allow for talks at the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC).
Secretaries began the 'work to rule' action last month in a row over pay and conditions.
The union says the dispute centres around a two-tier pay system - suggesting irregular and short-term contracts force some secretaries to sign on during school breaks.
The Government, meanwhile, has argued that Fórsa's pay claim is a "follow-on claim from the current pay agreement" which runs until the end of the year, adding that the union's claim will be "fully considered" shortly.
In a statement today, the union said the action has been suspended after it was confirmed that school employers would be represented at the WRC negotiations.
Fórsa’s head of education Andy Pike said: “Many thanks to all members who have stuck with the work to rule.
"Since our campaign started in January membership has increased by over 40% and continues to grow.
“The industrial action has served a purpose in gaining us access to the WRC with the employers’ representatives and the [Department of Education and Skills] at the negotiating table."
Mr Pike noted that the union would recommend acceptance of any outcome to schools' boards of management, as long as the department will fund any agreement.
