Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Council strike interim deal with unions for clean up of towns and villages following the death of Queen Elizabeth II

In a joint statement from the unions, Unite, GMB and NIPSA, with the council, it said it would permit workers to carry out essential work across our villages and towns during this period of mourning.

The statement said: “Following the sad news of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, in recognition of the need to prepare towns and villages for a period of mourning, the Joint Trade Unions have agreed to allow workers taking industrial action to carry out essential work within our town centres over the weekend.

"There will be further updates throughout the week.”

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Towns and villages and indeed the countryside have been littered with bulging bins and households have been overwhelmed with the build up of rubbish as the strike is due to go into its fifth week.

This is an interim arrangement but there are hopes of a more formal arrangement soon.

However a special meeting to discuss the issue on Wednesday has been postponed as a mark of respect following the death of the monarch.

Trade unions have been pressing for a decent pay deal amid the soaring cost of living as well as parity of pay following the amalgamation of the three councils in 2015.

In neighbouring Lisburn and Castlereagh Council, its strike has been postponed until the official period of mourning has come to an end.

The decision was confirmed in a joint statement agreed between Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council and Unite the Union.

“Following the sad news of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Unite the Union has agreed to the request from Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council to postpone strike action with immediate effect,” a spokesperson said.

“As a mark of respect, industrial action will remain suspended until the official period of mourning has passed.

“The Council wishes to place on record its thanks to Unite the Union.”

Striking workers at the Housing Executive also suspended picket lines on Thursday.

Postal workers in the Communication Workers Union suspended its strike action.