UNISON health workers across Northern Ireland have today pledged their support for the junior doctors campaign to protect safe working conditions.
UNISON health workers who took to the picket line against cuts earlier this year applaud the determination of young medics not only to stand up for themselves but in so doing protect safe practices in health care.
The stance taken by the Tory health ministers on this issue shows very clearly that they do not value the workforce in the NHS or the wellbeing of its patients and clients. We have had clear examples of similar neglect by the current absence of Northern Ireland health minister.
NHS workers here in NI are the only ones waiting for the implementation of the 1% pay uprise for 2014/15 recommended by the pay review body, and there is no offer for the current year 2015/16. UNISON is planning to further mobilise our members on this issue.
This campaign by junior doctors shows that health workers are determined to protect a safe and effective public health service.
They expect to be decently treated and fairly paid. These issues of pay and conditions of work for our hard working staff in the NHS here in Northern Ireland are going to be big issues in the forthcoming Assembly elections.
UNISON will be supporting the junior doctors’ rally at Belfast City Hall tomorrow, Saturday 17 October, at 2pm. and encourages the public to support them too.
