Industrial action at a Newry builders’ merchant was marred by an alleged assault on Thursday, with police issuing a community resolution notice to a man.

Officers were called to the Carnbane Industrial Estate shortly before 7.40am after a report that a man had been assaulted during an altercation at the picket line. A Police Service of Northern Ireland spokesperson confirmed the incident and the notice for common assault.

Haldane Fisher, which operates the central supply depot, said that the industrial action involves about 3% of its total workforce. The company stated it respects the right to lawful, peaceful protest and acknowledged that the involved colleagues had conducted themselves peacefully.

However, the firm added it had received complaints about intimidation of customers, suppliers, and staff by individuals on the picket line, including full-time officials of Unite the Union and others not employed by the company. Haldane Fisher said these reports are being actively investigated and that it will not tolerate behaviour that compromises safety.

Up to 40 workers are taking part in the strike after Unite members rejected what the union described as an imposed 2% pay rise. Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said the workers are low-paid and have seen their pay fail to keep pace with inflation and increases in the legal minimum wage. She added that they are determined to end the practice of management-imposed pay increases and have the union’s full support.

Regional officer Sean Smyth criticised management’s approach as disrespectful and warned that only an improved offer would prevent disruption to the company’s operations across Northern Ireland.