MEDIA RELEASE
ATTENTION: INDUSTRIAL AND HEALTH REPORTERS
Brackenridge Estate Carers Strike Into 2nd Day
“Unity - and resolve to achieve their goals - remains high among striking workers at Brackenridge Estate as the strike
enters its second day,” says Janice Gemmell NUPE Organiser.
The strike action is scheduled to take place from 7:00am on Friday 11th through to 7:00am on Sunday 13th January. There
has been a complete withdrawal of labour over this period. A plan is in place to ensure emergency support is available
for residents.
“Staff are heartened by the parents of residents who have supported their call to be appropriately valued for the
important work they do,” says Janice Gemmell. “Parents and residents joined the picket line outside the main gates of
Brackenridge Estate yesterday.
“The picket was manned throughout the night and is still being well supported today, with the carers’ resolve to see
this campaign through to the end very strong.”
“Management are clearly under pressure in caring for the residents as publicity about unprofessional behaviour like
patient information and names being written in felt on residents’ arms shows,” says Janice Gemmell.
“However the striking workers realise that ultimately, it is the Government and the Ministry of Health that must ensure
the Intellectual Disability sector is funded properly. This would then ensure that decent rates of pay and conditions
can be paid to the workers,” says Janice Gemmell.
ENDS