In England and Wales, NHS staff were given a £1,400 rise six months ago. In Scotland, unions are considering an offer averaging 7.5%. But for health workers in Northern Ireland, it's a different story.
Unions are willing to negotiate but without a local health minister, that responsibility falls on Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris.And therein lies the problem - not for the first time, health workers have become pawns in a political game around Stormont.
That's the bespoke part of the Brexit deal that established a trade border in the Irish Sea to avoid one between Northern Ireland and the Republic.But six months - and three British prime ministers - since the Stormont election, the UK government appears to have its head in the sand. The UK government still can't confirm when people living in Northern Ireland will receive the £600 energy allowance.There was disbelief last week when Mr Heaton-Harris said he was planning to invite parties to"tea and scones" to try to build bridges.
The foot-dragging at Westminster over the energy allowance and over the pay rise for health workers reeks of political brinkmanship.
Ireland Latest News, Ireland Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Northern Ireland weather: Another night of sub-zero temperaturesThe temperature fell to -7C in Katesbridge, County Down, on Saturday night and it is expected to be as low, if not lower in some places, on Sunday 🥶️ barrabest
Read more »
Strep A: Antibiotic deliveries to Northern Ireland being sped upDeliveries of antibiotics for the treatment of group A streptococcus infection are being sped up to reach wholesalers and pharmacies across NI in the coming days. StrepA MLChealth
Read more »
Strep A: Antibiotic deliveries to Northern Ireland being sped upThe Department of Health says supplies are available but the issue is distribution.
Read more »
When will Northern Ireland next go to the polls?Assembly and council elections loom in 2023, but their dates could be determined by other factors.
Read more »
When will Northern Ireland next go to the polls?Assembly and council elections loom in 2023, but their dates could be determined by other factors.
Read more »
Cold weather: Met Office cancels weather warning for Northern IrelandFreezing weather has led to the cancellation of some sporting fixtures in Northern Ireland.
Read more »