Sinn Féin’s workers’ rights spokesperson, Declan Kearney MLA has said that the protections of workers and families will be front and centre to the party’s approach in restoring the power sharing Executive.

Speaking after meeting a delegation representing the NIC – ICTU in Stormont today, alongside First Minister Designate Michelle O’Neill, the South Antrim MLA said:

“During out bilateral meeting with union leaders including ICTU President Justin McCamphill, Assistant General Secretary Gerry Murphy, and Paddy Mackle Chairperson of the NIC, we discussed the state of public finances, the important need to stabilise public services, as well as pay and conditions for public sector workers in the north.

“The Congress delegation underlines its deep concern about the ongoing political instability and the impact this is having upon members and families in the midst of the cost-of-living crisis.  

“Sinn Féin reiterated our commitment to getting properly resourced power sharing institutions in place, and removing the anti-democratic blockade being maintained by one party.

“I assured the trade union colleagues that Sinn Féin will be advocating for a new dialogue with the trade union movement in a new Executive, so that all civic stakeholders will have a meaningful influence over future economic, industrial and social policy.

“It is absolutely essential that our political institutions are made to deliver for all of society.

“Sinn Féin will ensure the priorities of workers and families will be front and centre to that new approach.”