As we return to industrial action short of strike, I would like to say a big thank you to activists and members for showing the bravery and determination to stand up for the key issues of Pay, Safe Staffing and Mileage despite the freezing conditions.
The day was a great success, sending a clear message to Employers and the Government and whilst Trade Union action has secured the implementation of the Pay Review Body recommendation of £1400 or 4% there remains to be a freeze on providing the “inflation busting” pay rise which will be crucial to retaining and recruiting the workforce to ensure Health Services are Safe for all.
The Industrial Action colleagues will clearly not resolve our issues overnight, with the lack of an Executive it falls to the Department and nationally Central Government to resolve these issues.
NIPSA is prepared for the long road ahead returning to the continuous action short of strike and work to rule to reinforce the key concerns around not just Pay but to expose the distress associated with Staffing limitations that causes constant stress and anxiety working in unsafe conditions.
We move into a Christmas period which will be challenging for members with the rising inflation and cost of living crisis continuing to take hold. NIPSA will continue to defend members in Health and Public Services adding to Action Short of Strike or taking further Strike Action when and where necessary.
NIPSA and Unison colleagues stood side beside yesterday and we continue to encourage other Unions to stand united, I would remind NIPSA colleagues that some specific actions short of strike in partnership with Unison will finish for the holiday period on the 19th of December however NIPSA continuous action will continue and includes:
For All NIPSA Members
- Hours of work will be strictly within normal paid hours;
- No unpaid work;
- No coverage provided for vacant posts;
- No coverage for long-term sick or maternity leave;
- Take all normal breaks.
While NIPSA wishes to see unions united I remind members that other colleagues will be taking part in Industrial Action, and I ask Members not to undertake any action that would undermine their actions and even if you are not taking part in the strike action you can still support your striking colleagues.
Please don’t undertake any duty of a striking worker and please show your support for the pickets on the day where you can. You could also show your support by writing to your local MP, MLA and councillors and your local paper.
NIPSA will build on the strength and resolve of members taking Industrial Action and would ask that you continue to share the importance of standing together to address the key issues of Pay, Staffing and Mileage which will go some way to securing a safer service for all.
For further information please speak to your Branch Representatives and continue to check here on the NIPSA website, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.