Industrial action involving staff from Newry, Mourne and Down District Council has been suspended. Union members carried out a work-to-rule this week and had pencilled in a further one day strike later this month but this will now not take place.
Many residents bins remained unemptied this week as a result of the action and other services were forced to close earlier.
A statement issued today on behalf of the Management (MS) and Trade Union Side said "Following a period of intense negotiations between Management and the recognised Trade Unions within Newry Mourne and Down District Council, a proposal has been tabled that has facilitated the suspension of industrial action with immediate effect."
Councillor Willie Clarke has welcomed the news “It has been announced that after the latest period of negotiations between our Council workers Trade Unions and Council management, ongoing industrial action has been suspended so that proposals tabled can be finalised which will resolve the current issue.
"This is welcome and I thank Trade Union representatives and Council management for their endeavours to work their way through the issues involved.
"These are unprecedented time’s and our Council staff like all front line workers face unprecedented pressures. We deeply appreciate their commitment to the health, safety and well being of all our communities”
