Sinn Féin MLA John O’Dowd has expressed solidarity with the Universities and Colleges Union on its decision to take strike action over reductions to their pensions.

The party’s spokesperson on Higher and Further Education said:

“I want to express support and solidarity with the University Lecturers and workers who have taken strike action in response to reductions to their pension entitlements.

“It’s shocking to hear claims that highly skilled academics are having to go on the picket line to get a fair pension and increases that were promised to them.

“These academics are leading the way on research and teaching – they must be valued and treated fairly.

“I hope that this issue can be resolved so that staff are treated fairly, and teaching can resume.”