SDLP MLA Mark H Durkan has called for certainty that healthcare workers in the North will received their promised their pay uplift for 2024/25.
Responding to a priority written Assembly Question tabled by Mr Durkan, the Health Minister, Mike Nesbitt said the current budget position means it is not possible to make a final decision on a 5.5% pay increase for HSC staff. NHS staff in England, Scotland and Wales have already benefited from an uplift in pay.
Said the Foyle MLA: “Healthcare workers need certainty that they will receive their well-earned pay uplift.
“Sadly, that clarity was not given, despite the Opposition asking for it this week. In financial terms this workforce is among the most undervalued across these islands.
“We can never repay the invaluable service they provide on a daily basis.
“Regardless of the Herculean tasks put to them, our health staff have remained steadfast in their commitment to providing care and ultimately saving lives.
“It is an insult to our healthcare workforce that once again, they feel they may have to take to the picket lines in order to receive their promised pay award.
“Health workers deserve tangible recognition of their sacrifice not just in the last few years but over the past decade.
“The Executive committed to supporting our public services and to give workers a helping hand out of the depths of crisis.
“They need to deliver on that promise.
“The SDLP will continue to fight for fairness for health staff and see this promised, and much needed, uplift delivered.”
Tags: