No further industrial action as Trade Unions reach agreement with Council

Industrial action by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council workers appears to be reaching a conclusion, with a joint statement today stating that the principles of an agreement have been reached which will be up for approval at a council meeting in December. No further industrial action will take place before this.

Industrial action had been taking place sporadically from earlier this year by union members from SIPTU, NIPSA, Unite and the GMB. As well as strike action a work-to-rule saw workers at many council facilities refuse to take on overtime, tasks outside their job description or provide absentee cover.

The joint statement issued on behalf of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Management and Trade Union Sides said “Following a period of intensive negotiations between Management and the recognised Trade Unions within Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, the principles of an agreement have been reached and will be tabled at a Council Committee meeting in December.

"During this period it was agreed that no further industrial action would be taken by the Trade Unions.”