Northern Ireland Faces Potential Milk Shortages Amid Industrial Action

Northern Ireland might experience milk shortages as employees at Dale Farm, a leading dairy producer, plan to undertake industrial action. The union has confirmed that a strike will start next Wednesday and could escalate into three-day and five-day walkouts if unresolved. Unite the Union revealed a strong backing from its members with 90% of drivers and 89% of engineers voting for the strike, highlighting ongoing disputes over pay discrepancies compared to industry standards. "Management knows what is needed to avoid this outcome," commented Simon Hall from Unite, urging for compensation improvements. Sharon Graham, the General Secretary of Unite, emphasized the workers' determination to secure a fair pay rise, noting Dale Farm's success. Contrarily, Dale Farm insists on having contingencies to prevent any supply interruptions, asserting a fair proposal to employees and expressing openness to dialogue. The situation, if unaddressed, could result in notable disruptions, impacting milk collection and production extensively through the involvement of both engineers and drivers.