Ulster Unionist Health Spokesperson Alan Chambers MLA has welcomed the announcement that the Health Minister has secured agreement to restore pay parity for Northern Ireland’s health workers.

Alan Chambers said,

“This announcement represents an important step forward in once again recognising the dedication of our health workers and ensuring they receive the overdue remuneration and parity in pay they deserve.

“It has been a long and, I’m sure an often frustrating journey for all concerned, but I am very pleased that the Health Minister has now been able to secure the Executive’s agreement to allow him to deliver this year's pay award. I’m also very pleased that the Minister has confirmed the award will be backdated in full to 1 April 2025. 

“Ensuring our health staff receive their full pay entitlement is not only the right decision, but also essential for morale, retention and the sustainability of our health service. 

“Despite the unprecedented pressures on the health budget, I commend the Minister for convincing Executive colleagues of the need to allow him to move forward on this critical issue.”