Ballot for resident doctor strike action in Northern Ireland

A ballot is a vote by members of a trade union about whether to take industrial action. 

When did the ballot take place?

The ballot opened on 11 May 2026 and closed on 8 June 2026. 

Why was I balloted on taking industrial action?

Resident doctors in Northern Ireland have experienced a 30.7% pay cut in real terms. This year, resident doctors in Northern Ireland did not receive the DDRB recommended pay uplift  until months after their colleagues working elsewhere in the UK. 

The decision to proceed towards a ballot for industrial action was clear-cut for the committee. 

Requirements of a successful ballot

A trade union ballot requires a majority 'Yes' vote. Northern Ireland industrial action law is slightly different to other parts of the UK in that the 50% turnout requirement in England, as well as the minimum service level requirements, do not exist in Northern Ireland.  

All that is required is that the ballot is conducted legitimately, and that a majority of those who vote do so in favour of industrial action. 

What form will strike action take?  

The strike will be a full walk out for 24hours starting on 29 June 2026. 

Will there be more than one strike?  

This depends on the response to the strike. If we receive a credible offer from the Department of Health we will be willing to listen to these and the Northern Ireland resident doctors committee will decide on future action based on this. We should be willing to take further action if it is necessary to achieve our aims.