BBC Northern Ireland journalists to strike
NUJ members working across BBC Northern Ireland will take part in 24hr strike action on Friday 19 May, in opposition to proposed cuts to jobs and programmes.
An industrial action ballot of members delivered a strong mandate with 83 per cent voting in favour of strike action, following the failure of BBC management to save valued programmes across Northern Ireland, and guarantee the security of journalists’ jobs. As part of cost-cutting efforts, the public service broadcaster is seeking £2.3m in savings, cutting 36 posts alongside other potential job losses.
NUJ members believe the BBC’s restructuring plans will impact resources and their ability to deliver quality programmes across Northern Ireland. For example, last month the Radio Foyle Breakfast Show was dramatically altered, now 30 minutes instead of its original two-hour duration. Communities across Northern Ireland have expressed dismay and anger over the impact of cuts to services, urging the BBC to rethink plans.
The NUJ has been engaged in negotiations with the BBC and has urged them to return to discussions with viable options on alternative ways to make savings.
Strike action commences at 00:15 on May 19th and ends at 00:15 on May 20th.
Paul Siegert, NUJ national broadcasting organiser, said:
“Members have been left with no option than to head to pickets in defence of their jobs and the much-loved programmes listeners tune into daily. Yet again, the BBC is pursuing savings and drastic changes at the expense of quality journalism it claims to pride itself on. The NUJ wants to reach a solution that resolves the dispute and asks the BBC to return to talks with a fair offer members can accept.”