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Northern Ireland Strikes: Updates and Developments

Recent industrial actions in Northern Ireland, spanning various sectors, including healthcare and education, have garnered significant attention and sparked discussions surrounding workers’ rights and government legislation. Here’s a summary of the latest strikes development.

Junior Doctors’ and Train Drivers’ Strikes

Junior doctors’ strikes are scheduled for March 6-7, following similar actions in England and Wales. Concurrently, train drivers, represented by Aslef, have engaged in rolling strikes since January in a prolonged pay dispute affecting multiple train operating companies.

Minimum Service Levels Act 2023

The recent rail strikes served as a test for the Strikes (Minimum Service Levels) Act 2023, which mandates minimum service levels during industrial actions. While rail operators faced the prospect of implementing these rules, disputes and negotiations underscore the complexities surrounding adherence to government-set thresholds.

Labour Party’s Stance and Trade Union Regulations

The Labour Party has vowed to repeal the “anti-strikes act” alongside the Trade Union Act 2016, which introduced stricter regulations on industrial action. The legislation imposes higher ballot thresholds and longer notice periods, impacting various public services.

Challenges in Finding Cover

Employers’ ability to find cover for striking workers has been further complicated since August 2023, as using agency workers during strikes was prohibited following a High Court ruling. Despite initial government plans to repeal this ban, consultations continue amidst ongoing disputes.

Education Sector Strikes

In Northern Ireland, ongoing actions short of strikes have been coupled with targeted strikes by education unions, including NEU, NASUWT, NAHT, UTU, and INTO. Recent discussions between union representatives and the education minister have yielded constructive outcomes, prompting a pause in strike actions while negotiations proceed.

Positive Steps Forward

The Northern Ireland Teachers Council has expressed optimism following discussions with Education Minister Paul Givan, signalling a potential resolution to long-standing issues such as cost-of-living adjustments for educators. As talks progress, strike actions are temporarily suspended, with ongoing efforts to address remaining concerns through dialogue.

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