Givan welcomes suspension of industrial action

Education Minister Paul Givan has welcomed the suspension of industrial action by support staff planned for next week.

NIPSA and GMB have agreed to suspend strikes planned for Monday and Tuesday next week to allow further talks to resolve the ongoing pay and grading dispute. Unite the Union will only suspend strikes on Monday 3 June pending further negotiations, which will take place on Monday, to find an acceptable resolution to the dispute.

The minister welcomed the decision and said:

“I welcome the positive development that the unions have agreed to suspend the strike next week to allow for intensive negotiations aimed at resolving the ongoing pay and grading dispute. Most importantly, this means that it will now be possible for many schools that were planning to close on Monday and Tuesday to open as usual.”

The minister continued:

“I am completely grateful for the outstanding role of support staff across the education sector. Without their outstanding commitment and hard work, those who most depend on the services they provide would not receive the vital support they need and deserve.

“I am committed to working with the unions to find a solution and remain confident that progress can be made. I will work with my colleagues in management to ensure that is the outcome.”

Notes for editors:

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