The trade union Unite has confirmed a timetable of further strike action by members throughout April and early May.
The actions follow on from earlier strike action taken by Unite members at councils, the Education Authority, NI Housing Executive, further education colleges, schools and youth services in response to the National Joint Council offering a 1.75% increase in pay. The current rate of inflation impacting workers’ living standard is 9%.
“The offer of 1.75% is completely unacceptable – it’s a huge wage cut,” said Unite general secretary Sharon Graham. “All workers have a right to expect pay to keep pace with inflationary pressures and it’s appalling that public sector workers face a choice of heating or eating.
“Workers out on pickets in Northern Ireland are demonstrating their determination to secure real improvements. They have my complete support and that of everyone in Unite.”
Unite regional officer Gareth Scott blamed employers for the continued strike action: “These workers took a powerful first week of strike action only a matter of weeks ago. They also gathered in large numbers at Stormont to highlight their determination to defend themselves from the cost of living crisis.
“These employers need to address the pay expectations of their workforce. Their failure to do so to date has led to this escalation and the unnecessary disruption that will inevitably result.”
