…Researched and contributed by Henry George for TDPel Media.
The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) has rejected a pay deal offered by the government, leading to concerns that more strikes could be on the horizon.
In a ballot, 61% of eligible members voted, with 54% rejecting the pay deal. RCN leader Pat Cullen said that if a further ballot in May were to be successful, it would mean further strike action right up until Christmas.
The government’s current legal notice means that the current strike mandate runs out at midnight on 1 May.
Should the government not improve its pay offer, the RCN could take further strike action.
NHS nurses in emergency departments, intensive care, and cancer wards will strike for the first time from 8pm on Sunday 30 April until 8pm on Tuesday 2 May.
In response, the government has called on the RCN to accept the pay offer, arguing that fresh nurses’ strikes would have a “deeply concerning” impact on emergency services and cancer care.
Commentary:
Nurses play a critical role in the UK’s healthcare system, and it is concerning to see that the government and the RCN have not been able to come to an agreement on pay.
The prospect of more strikes, particularly during a time when the NHS is already under immense pressure due to the COVID-19 pandemic, is worrying.
Both sides must work to find a resolution that is fair to nurses and recognises the vital work they do.
At the same time, it is important to ensure that patients are not negatively impacted by the strike action, particularly in emergency departments and cancer wards.