Sinn Féin MLA Declan Kearney has called for solidarity with staff employed by the Education Authority who are taking strike action to secure a fair pay settlement.

The party’s workers’ rights spokesperson said:

“The striking workers who are taking industrial action for a fair pay settlement deserve our support and solidarity.

“These workers including school bus drivers, escorts, maintenance and catering staff, classroom assistants, playground supervisors, school administrative staff, cleaners, building supervisors and ground maintenance staff are essential to the running of our schools. 

“They deserve fair pay and decent working conditions. 

“Sinn Féin is clear, these workers should receive the pay settlement to which they are entitled.

“It is vital this issue is resolved appropriately, so that normal service can resume.

“Ultimately, these workers who have been forced to take industrial and strike action need more than just our support and solidarity; they require an Executive which stands up for workers’ rights and is committed to defending public services.”