A senior official in Northern Ireland's largest trade union has launched a campaign to become its next general secretary.

Maria Morgan, currently deputy general secretary of NIPSA, is standing in the election that began on 5 June and runs until 26 June. She would succeed Carmel Gates, who is retiring.

Ms Morgan outlined her priorities as better pay, mileage rates, job security, pensions, early retirement options and flexible or hybrid working arrangements.

Speaking at a protest outside the Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast in support of colleagues impacted by recent racial attacks in the city, she said the union must be a voice for migrant workers and ethnic communities both inside and outside the workplace.

She said she wanted to build on the growth of the union under the outgoing general secretary's leadership, noting that NIPSA has become the largest trade union in Northern Ireland.

Eligible members are being asked to return their ballot papers with a vote for her candidacy.