NI health staff ‘should get above inflation pay rises’

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NI health staff ‘should get above inflation pay rises’

Health service staff in Northern Ireland should get a 5.5% pay rise this year, an independent review body has said.

A separate review has recommended a 6% pay rise for doctors and dentists.

The health minister is not obliged to follow the recommendation and will need clarity on the size of his budget.

Stormont will get extra money as a result of spending decisions announced by the Chancellor on Monday.

However, the precise amount is unlikely to become clear for several weeks.

Stormont’s Department of Health assumes that every 1% on pay will cost roughly £50m.

Earlier this year, the department suggested

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Health service workers in NI accepted a

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The Executive was only able to afford that due to additional funding provided by the *** government when devolution was restored.

In a statement on Monday, Health Minister Mike Nesbitt welcomed the publication of the two reports.

Mr Nesbitt says he supports the recommendations “in principle” and will be engaging with his executive colleagues and the government to “confirm the financial implications for NI and to see to secure the additional funding required”.

“The severe budgetary pressures on health and social care in NI mean I am unable to make an immediate decision on the recommendations,” he said.

“This is very regrettable, but I can assure staff I will do everything in my power to ensure they are properly rewarded for the great work they do.”

The recommendation on doctor’s pay is separate from the

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Junior doctors in Northern Ireland have also been taking part in the industrial action, but it will be down to the Executive to make its own offer to end the dispute.

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