Workers take to the streets of Derry in strikes over pay

Over 150,000 workers are taking to the streets in what has been billed as the biggest day of strike action ever seen in the North of Ireland.

Civil servants, teachers, bus and train drivers and healthcare staff are among those taking to picket lines while two rallies take place across Derry, with another six in Belfast and one in Enniskillen.

SDLP Foyle MLA Mark H Durkan said on social media: “Solidarity with our public sector workers braving the cold today for better pay, better conditions and improved public services.”

The first parade left from Altnagelvin at 10.30am and mad its way from the Waterside to Guildhall Square.

The route was along Glendermott Road, Dales Corner, King Street Expressway, past Waterside Train Station, onto Duke Street and across the top deck (city bound) of Craigavon Bridge onto Carlisle Road, into The Diamond, down Shipquay Street and into Guildhall Square.

At 11am, a second parade left from Strand Road with participants making their way to Guildhall Square.

The route was along Strand Road, Queens Quay, Waterloo Square, Waterloo Street, through The Diamond, down Shipquay Street and into Guildhall Square.

Dispersal time at Guildhall Square is expected to be at around 12.30pm.

No roads will be closed during either parade.

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