21/04/2015

NI Midwives To Strike Over Pay

Midwives in Northern Ireland are preparing to strike in a dispute over pay.

Almost 90% of members from the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) supported a strike.

A total of 89.7% said they are prepared to take part in a strike, while 96.5% said they are prepared to take part in action short of a strike.

The RCM will be starting industrial action on Thursday, 30 April with a four-hour stoppage.

This will be followed by further action starting on Friday, 1 May to Thursday, 7 May, which will consist of RCM members only working overtime if it is agreed they will be paid for it, and taking all the breaks they are entitled to.

Cathy Warwick, RCM Chief Executive, said: "We took industrial action in England, and through that action won a victory for our members. We also negotiated a deal with the Welsh government.

"There is still time for the Northern Ireland Executive to come to the negotiating table to seek a solution. We are seeking urgent talks with the health minister.

"The RCM will be meeting with employers to discuss our action and to ensure that mothers and babies are not put at any risk. I want to reassure women expecting a baby that midwives will continue to look after them and that they will be safe."

(CD)

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