Nurses' strike in Northern Ireland: pictures from around the picket lines

Picket lines formed outside hospitals across Northern Ireland today (Thursday, December 15) as thousands of nurses joined colleagues in England and Wales in a 12-hour strike, the largest of its kind in the history of the NHS.

The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) say they have taken the action “for fair pay and patient safety”. A second strike is due to take place on Tuesday, December 20.

RCN members held a local strike in Northern Ireland in 2019 over similar issues.

5. Craigavon Area Hospital

Joining the picket line at Craigavon Area Hospital are nursing staff from left, Julie Stewart, Frances Rodgers, Michelle Murphy, Julie-Ann Colvin and Catherine Teggart. PT50-202. Photo: Tony Hendron

6. Craigavon Area Hospital

Nurses on the picket line at Craigavon Area Hospital on Thursday. PT50-200. Photo: Tony Hendron

7. Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast

Nurses on the picket line at the RVH in Belfast. Photo: Colm Lenaghan/ Pacemaker

8. Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast

On the picket line at the RVH on Thursday in a 12-hour strike, which is the largest action of its kind in NHS history. Photo: Colm Lenaghan/ Pacemaker