Health Trade Unions in Northern Ireland seek meeting with Secretary of State Chris Heaton- Harris 

Regional Health Trade Union leaders have written to the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland seeking a direct meeting with him.

They said "As the talks commenced yesterday with political parties and business leaders, it is essential that engagement also includes Trade Unions." Anne Speed lead negotiator said " The Secretary of State for Health in England has met with Trade Unions. Today the Health Minister for Wales will meet with Trade Unions. The Scottish Government has directly negotiated with Trade Unions.  No one is talking to us.

“In the absence of an Executive the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland holds responsibility to ensure engagement with all parts of civic society in Northern Ireland. He has talked with politicians and with business leaders.”  

“Given that further industrial action is now imminent we the Joint Secretaries of the Health Unions in Northern Ireland believe continuing silence from him represents a missed opportunity to hear and consider resolutions to this most serious dispute. "