NHT workers extend sickout as wage talks collapse

National Housing Trust workers have taken their wage dispute into a second day of industrial action, disrupting some services at the 50-year-old agency.

Ancillary, clerical and administrative employees represented by the NHT Staff Association (NHTSA) began the sickout on Thursday and continued the action into Friday following a breakdown in negotiations over wages and benefits.

According to sources, the workers accuse NHT management of failing to negotiate in “good faith”, with employees reportedly feeling disrespected over the handling of a scheduled meeting with their union.

The workers claim the date for the meeting was changed without notice to the NHTSA, only for them to later learn that the meeting was held on Tuesday without the union's positions being tabled.

Several issues remain on the table, including requests for information on the breakdown of salaries, reduced interest rates for mortgages and car loans, changes to the home equity programme and a one-off payment to mark the NHT's 50th anniversary.

The workers say the situation is particularly difficult for the most vulnerable members of staff, who they claim are facing financial hardships amid what they describe as “dishonourable negotiations.”

During the industrial action, some NHT operations are reportedly being managed by managers and temporary employees who are not unionised.

The Trust has also asked customers who normally make mortgage payments in person to use drop boxes at NHT offices while the industrial action continues.

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