SPIRITS were high outside Letterkenny University Hospital for the largest public sector strike in 20 years.
Protesters at Letterkenny University Hospital at the one day strike.
On the Kilmacrennan Road, the cycle lanes were a sea of high-vis jackets, with Letterkenny University Hospital (LUH) and St Conal’s Hospital staff on the picket line joking that this strike was the first time the lanes had a purpose.
It was clear that other workers have their backs with passing cars honking in support.
Representatives from the PNA union at St. Conal’s Hospital.
Chair of the Donegal branch for health and welfare, Anne Marie Boyle said the mood amongst picketers was positive.
She said: “We’ve had a brilliant turn-out, I have to say.
“We’ve asked our members to come out and they were here before eight o’clock this morning and we’ll be here until four o’clock.”
Dr David with hospital staff.
Donegal healthcare workers struggles were also heard across the border, and representatives of NIPSA were on the ground with the staff of LUH.
NIPSA official from the Western Trust, Lorraine Maquire said public sector workers are the most vital service in the country.
“I’ve come down today to show solidarity with our colleagues from the South.
“It’s been tremendous to see such a support for such a vital cause.”
Some of the staff that turned out for the strike at LUH in Letterkenny.
Over 300,000 public workers across the country took part in the 24-hour strike today.
A further strike is planned for next Wednesday and union representatives have warned it will be bigger.
Ambulance representatives from SIPTU at Letterkenny LUH including Marty Patterson, Paddy Crawfrod, Kirsty Dunlop and Sean Marley