Northern Ireland civil servants stage one day strike over pay

by Q Radio News

Civil servants belonging to the NIPSA trade union are staging a one day strike today across Northern Ireland.

It follows a ballot by members who are unhappy with their pay and conditions.

Union officials say members are angry after receiving a below-inflation pay rise for the ninth year in a row.

Henry Kerr travelled from Castledawson to Coleraine MOT centre this morning fearing his test may be postponed. pic.twitter.com/MrW3uSJRki

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So far MOT centres appear to be operating as normal with government departments saying they are seeking to ensure essential services continue to be delivered during the planned industrial action.

The advice to customers with appointments is that they should attend as scheduled.

However, the Department for Communities confirmed that people claiming Job Seekers Allowance have been excused from having to sign on during today's strike.

A spokesman for the Northern Ireland Prison Service said it is monitoring the situation but does not expect major disruption.

(The MOT centre in Coleraine)