DAERA vets step up industrial action in long running dispute
Veterinary staff employed by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) have escalated industrial action in a long‑running dispute over pay and grading.
More than 30 vets, represented by the Northern Ireland Public Service Alliance (NIPSA), are involved in the dispute, which has remained unresolved for over a decade. The union says repeated attempts to secure meaningful engagement have failed.
The dispute was formally notified to DAERA on 20 March, but initial contact from the Department did not occur until 18 May. NIPSA has criticised what it describes as a lack of urgency in addressing the issue.
Industrial action began on 1 May, with members withdrawing from on‑call duties, training activities and supervision of on‑farm TB testing.
NIPSA says that with no progress made, the action intensified from 1 June to include withdrawal from on‑farm TB testing and a range of certification and technical duties.
The escalation is expected to significantly impact service delivery, including delays in testing high‑risk TB animals, disruption to meat export certification, and potential delays for imported live animals and animal products at Northern Ireland ports.
NIPSA has said the dispute comes amid wider concerns around veterinary staffing pressures within DAERA and increasing reliance on agency provision. The union has also welcomed an invitation to meet the Stormont AERA Committee.
NIPSA Assistant Secretary Alan Law said: “Our members have shown considerable patience, yet DAERA has failed to engage meaningfully to resolve this long‑standing issue.
“This situation is entirely avoidable. We remain ready to enter negotiations immediately, but that requires a willingness from the Department that has so far been absent.
“The escalation is already impacting essential services, and responsibility for that disruption rests with DAERA management.
“Our priority is securing a fair and sustainable resolution while protecting the integrity of veterinary services in Northern Ireland.”
A DAERA spokesperson said: “The Department notes and very much regrets the escalation of the notified industrial action by a group of DAERA’s veterinary officers.
“Management met with Trade Union side on 1 June 2026, with further meetings planned in a continuing effort to resolve matters.
“This is a staff pay dispute that is being handled through established industrial relations processes and it would be inappropriate to comment further at this stage.
“At this stage, the Department is assessing the implications of the industrial action and has established business continuity plans in place to safeguard animal health, public health and trade. We appreciate the patience and understanding of all parties involved as we work towards a resolution and will keep all stakeholders informed should any significant operational impacts arise.”