LISTEN: Nurses start 48 hours of industrial action across NI

Q Radio

Thousands of nurses across Northern Ireland have started 48 hours of industrial action .

It comes just days after unions rejected a £28 million pay offer by the Department of Health.

Staff say it doesn't reach pay parity with health and social care workers in other parts of the UK.

They're also calling for additional staffing levels across the health service here. 

Royal College of Nursing Members are taking 48 hours of industrial action in a dispute over pay and staffing levels. They’re taking action short of strike, meaning they’ll only work to their contracts. pic.twitter.com/DJthLPc9WM

— Q Radio News (@qnewsdesk) December 10, 2019

Members of RCN (Royal College of Nursing) are taking action short of strike, meaning they won't take on extra duties or work through breaks.

Information on disruptions and cancellations is available on the Health and Social Care website.

RCN Director Pat Cullen speaks to @qnewsdesk as members stand outside Belfast City Hospital to demand better pay and staffing levels. pic.twitter.com/fQObHdIz3f

— Q Radio News (@qnewsdesk) December 10, 2019

This nurse at Belfast City Hospital says the issue goes beyond money:

In November, nurses in Northern Ireland voted to take part in strike action for the first time in the RCN's 103-year history.

IMAGE: Pat Cullen, Director Royal College of Nursing.