Ryan FowlerEducation workers in Northern Ireland, represented by GMB, are threatening to strike following the government’s failure to address their demands for pay and grading adjustments.
The Northern Ireland Finance Minister has stated that there will be no additional funding for the review aimed at rectifying longstanding pay discrepancies—a promise made in 2018.
Despite the Department of Finance previously accepting a business case from the Department of Education to correct these inequalities, improvements have not materialised.
GMB represents employees in various low-paid roles, including classroom assistants, cooks, cleaners, and administrative staff, predominantly held by women on temporary or part-time contracts.
Jim Donley, GMB regional officer, strongly criticised the government’s inaction, said: “It’s disgraceful and insulting to all GMB members across the country that they have been told that there is no money to fund this pay and grading review.”
He highlighted the negative impact on various educational services, already struggling with recruitment and retention issues, and warned of a potential strike.
“Morale is at an all-time low. We will now engage with members – along with the other education unions – to agree a way forward.”
