University strikes: Queen's and Ulster could face 18 days of action

By Robbie Meredith

BBC News NI Education Correspondent

Queen's University Belfast (QUB) and Ulster University (UU) could face almost four weeks of "unprecedented" strike action by some staff during February and March.

The University and College Union (UCU), which represents lecturers and support staff, has announced dates for 18 days of action.

The action relates to disputes over pay, working conditions and pensions.

Union members were previously out on strike for three days in November 2022.

The UCU is due to meet the Universities and Colleges Employers Association (UCEA) on Wednesday for last-ditch talks.

In a statement, the union said it was "demanding a meaningful pay rise to deal with the cost-of-living crisis as well as action to end the use of insecure contracts" or the strikes would go ahead.

"A resolution can be reached, but that is in the gift of university vice-chancellors who need to urgently reassess their priorities and deliver a deal that benefits staff and students," the UCU said.