Speaking as UCU members in Further Education colleges across the North begin strike action, People Before Profit MLA Gerry Carroll said:
“People Before Profit fully support the UCU staff and their strike action for fair pay in colleges across the North.
“Despite repeated platitudes about learning lessons during COVID, there has been a reluctance from the Economy Minister and the wider Executive to tackle the historical problems of low pay for college staff.
“Throughout the pandemic these workers have adapted to educate and assist people through their studies, but recognition and reward for this work is not forthcoming from the Executive.
“Local Further Education staff are the lowest paid in the devolved regions. If these workers and the support they provide are valued, the Executive should move swiftly to address low levels of pay and wage cuts in the sector.”
ENDS