The Civil Service Executive Committee met today and agreed that NIPSA members in the NICS, ALBs and NDPBs will take strike action on 26 April. Strike action on that date is also being taken by PCS, the teaching unions and other public sector trade unions. This combined action is in response to the continuing failure of Westminster and the Secretary of State to provide the funding needed to give civil and public sector workers the pay rise they need.
The Civil Service Executive Committee is now asking all branches to prepare for strike action on that day. To assist in that process, branches may wish to call meetings to allow members to discuss the issue.
Action Short of Strike Action
The action short of strike action is continuing and members are reminded that they should:
- Refuse to undertake the work of vacant posts and absent colleagues;
- Refuse to undertake any voluntary duties;
- Take proper tea breaks and lunch breaks; and
- Work only the hours you are paid for.
Strike Action in the Ulster Folk and Transport Museum
As I mentioned in my last bulletin, the first strategic strike action of the campaign took place in the Folk and Transport Museum, Cultra on St Patrick’s day which is one of the Museum’s busiest days of the year.
The strike action and picket line were solid, and the action was very well supported by activists and other unions and by the public. On your behalf, I thank the members in that area for their action.
Protest at the Secretary of State’s Office
NIPSA called a protest at Erskine House on 15 March, the day the Chancellor delivered the Spring Budget. We were joined by GMB, Unite, Unison and by PCS and UCU who were on strike on the day. The high-profile protest really struck a chord and received extensive coverage on all the main news outlets and received wide public support. I would like to thank those of you who worked to make it a success. A member of staff in the Northern Ireland Office came out to listen to our issues and we made the case to him for immediate action by the Secretary of State.
Future Action
The Civil Service Executive Committee remains committed to an intelligent strategy that includes strike action, action short of strike action and targeted action. We continue to encourage branches to work together in identifying where targeted strike action would have the best impact in their business area and I would like to thank all those who have brought valuable suggestions to the table and would ask you all to keep up this good work.
We must continue to raise the voice of NIPSA members along with others to call for action and we are seeking fresh meetings with all the political parties to maintain their support and with the Secretary of State to press home our claims for fair pay. Our activity will increase in the run up to the local council elections.
Build for Success
To mobilise for a successful strike on 26th April, I would ask Branch Secretaries to bring this bulletin to the immediate attention of all members. Further information will be issued regarding rallies on the day of the strike and in relation to the dissemination of strike and picket material. We will also issue Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) to ensure every member is clear about what is expected of them
If you have any questions in relation to this bulletin, please contact your branch secretary and I thank all branch activists for their ongoing engagement in the campaign.