Primary School managers and teachers' union representatives were due to discuss the impact of the cutbacks on schools today, as well as further threats of cuts to the sector.
At a meeting this afternoon, the two sides were also to discuss INTO directives to members that managers say will make the running of schools even more difficult.
It is not unusual for managers and trade unions to meet at this time of the year, but the backdrop to today's meeting was unprecedented - schools coming to terms with swingeing cuts.
The INTO, along with sister teacher unions, has declared its opposition to pay cuts. However, some managers say privately they believe it is an option that has to be considered.
Today's meeting was to discuss potential conflict points such as union directives to members in response to the cuts, which managers say will increase pressure on principals, a claim rejected by the INTO.
