UNISON Northern Ireland regional secretary Patrica McKeown has accused the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service of a “strike-breaking manoeuvre which is a complete breach of faith” after it declared a ‘major incident’ last night just hours before ambulance staff were due to join other NHS colleagues and public service workers on strike.
Ms McKeown said the “decision to declare a major incident across the whole of Northern Ireland two hours in advance of strike action is provocative.
“It is not a ‘smart’ move if that was the intention. Instead it is likely to provoke further action.
“There are no indications that such a major incident exists.
“However, at 1am a non-emergency crew was instructed to attend the Mater Hospital to provide non-emergency transport.
“The crew was threatened with disciplinary action if they did not respond.
“This is strike breaking and intimidation. The NIAS management has now issued an apology to us and our members and has withdrawn the non-emergency services.”
Ms McKeown warned: “Ambulance staff have the right to strike and we will support our members who chose to exercise their right. By declaring a major incident NIAS has effectively binned the agreements reached earlier.
“Today is the beginning of industrial action throughout Northern Ireland and all indications are that UNISON members across the health service have joined the action from midnight.
“There will be further meetings with NIAS today.”
