Workers in Pobal's 'Better Start' programme, who are members of the Fórsa trade union, have voted overwhelmingly in favour of industrial action, up to and including strike action.
The union is accusing management of failing to implement the recommendations of an independent report on pay for Grade 2 Early Years Specialists.
'Better Start' is a Government initiate hosted by Pobal that promotes quality and inclusion in Early Learning and Care (ELC) settings for children from birth to six years of age.
Grade 2 Early Years Specialists work directly with early year’s services in a mentoring role.
Fórsa and management have previously held talks on this issue at the Workplace Relations Commission.
"Unfortunately, management have refused to constructively engage on this issue and continue to refuse to extend the salary scale," said Fórsa official Derek Kelleher.
"Our members, who work tirelessly to support children in our communities, have given us a strong mandate to deliver on this issue.
"We believe this overwhelming vote in favour of industrial action will show management that workers will not be disrespected and will force them back into negotiations."
Fórsa said it remains willing to commence talks with management at any time.
Pobal said it is concerned by the choice of action by Fórsa.
"Throughout this dispute Pobal and Better Start management have met and actively engaged with the union to resolve the matter, meeting them regularly and attending the WRC, most recently in February and April," a spokesperson said.
"It is Pobal's view that threatening industrial action, rather than using the steps laid down in the company/union agreement, represents a breach of the company union Recognition and Procedure Agreement that has been in place between Pobal and Fórsa since the early 2000s.
"Pobal remain committed to engaging with Fórsa constructively on this issue and have continued to engage with the WRC on the matter."
