Fermanagh postal workers were among the thousands of workers on the picket lines as thousands of postal workers began their strike today (Friday).

It is estimated 115,000 postal workers are out on strike for a “dignified, proper pay rise".

Members of the Communication Workers Union (CWU) – which represents Royal Mail Group workers – have started a series of national strike action, beginning today, Friday, August 25.

This will be followed by further strike action next Wednesday, August 31; Thursday, September 8; and Friday, September 9.

The decision follows the union’s recent ballot for strike action over pay, which saw members vote by 97.6 per cent on a 77 per cent turnout to take action.

The union is demanding that Royal Mail Group make an adequate pay award that covers the current cost of living increases for members.

Management imposed a 2 per cent pay rise on employees, who were classified as key workers throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, through executive action earlier this summer.

CWU General Secretary Dave Ward said: “There can be no doubt that postal workers are completely united in their determination to secure the dignified, proper pay rise they deserve.

“We can’t keep on living in a country where bosses rake in billions in profit while their employees are forced to use food banks ... our members won’t accept pleads of poverty from the company."

CWU Deputy General Secretary Terry Pullinger said:  “Our members worked miracles during the pandemic and know full well what they are worth.

“Our members deserve a pay rise that rewards their fantastic achievements in keeping the country connected during the pandemic, but also helps them keep up during this current economic crisis.

“We won’t be backing down until we get just that.”