UK: Unionized junior doctors plan 48-hour strike in Northern Ireland, May 22-24

Unionized junior doctors in Northern Ireland plan to strike from 07:00 May 22 to 07:00 May 24. The industrial action has been organized to demand increased pay. The strike will affect routine appointments in hospitals and GP surgeries throughout Northern Ireland. Emergency services will continue to be provided. The medical unions plan further industrial action June 6-8.

Striking doctors will likely demonstrate in Belfast and other urban centers. Pickets are possible outside major hospitals on all strike days. All demonstrations could prompt localized disruptions in their vicinity. Police may deploy additional resources near larger gatherings.

The strikes will likely prompt disruptions to healthcare services, including a reduction in available services and cancelations of routine appointments. Disruptions could persist following the conclusion of the strike as medical facilities deal with a backlog of patients.