Speaking to nurses on the INMO picket line yesterday it is clear that those staff members want to be at work providing professional care for  their patients.

Both Councillor Philip Brady and I outlined our strong views that the Government and the Health Minister need to engage in meaningful talks and proper discussions with the Union without further delay.

Account must be taken of the changed role of the nursing profession over recent years and proper remuneration and employment conditions are required.  Government needs to start listening to nurses.