Northern Ireland health workers suspend strike and vote on government pay offer

UNISON health workers in Northern Ireland have today (16th January) agreed to suspend strike action and ballot staff on whether to accept an improved government pay deal. UNISON’s health leadership met to consider a framework agreement in relation to the long running industrial dispute on pay parity and safe staffing in the health service. The agreement was reached last night after intensive negotiations between the trade union group and the department of health. UNISON General Secretary Dave Prentis said: “Our members in Northern Ireland have not only achieved pay parity against great odds, they have won the support and respect of the people of Northern Ireland by their determination to stand up for the rights of patients and health workers alike. “There can be little doubt that the sustained industrial action, dominating headlines for seven weeks, forced a response from both the UK government and the main Northern Ireland political parties that has resulted in the restoration of devolved government and reinstatement of the health service to the top of the political agenda. “I take great pride in extending congratulations to them from everyone in UNISON. I take particular pride in the fact that our members, who have worked tirelessly to protect the peace process over the past 20 years, were the catalyst for the return of power sharing and what we all hope is the start of a new era of rights and equality for all. “Our members from right across the co...
Source: UNISON Health care news - Category: UK Health Authors: Tags: News Press release Anne Speed dave prentis health workers Northern Ireland Patricia McKeown pay strike Source Type: news