Dear member,
Firstly, on behalf of NIPSA and the wider membership I wish to thank all those who took part in the recent industrial action in the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust.
These members set out to send a message to the Department of Health (DoH) and the Minister that staffing levels within Social Work has hit a crisis point and urgent action needs to be taken.
They stood on picket lines in Lisburn, Ards and Downpatrick facing weather conditions of a typical NI summer of 4 seasons in one day. This did not deter them nor the various supporters from other Branches and HQ Staff.
They followed this up with a protest to the Secretary of State’s office at Erskine House, today Friday 5 July 2024.
As a result of this action the DOH have made direct contact with NIPSA and they are now seeking discussions to address these issues in a more meaningful way.
This is by no means an end to the dispute but it shows that our message has been heard loud and clear and for that reason, everyone should be proud of the stance that they have taken.
Members, we must continue this course until not only is your message heard but that your demands are delivered and staffing levels are increased to safe standards expected by yourselves and the public.
Finally, I want to thank all the members from other health branches who attended the picket lines, as your combined efforts over the past 3 days have resulted in making the strike action such a success.