A strike at Haldane Fisher has continued for three weeks, with workers protesting over pay and conditions. The industrial action is taking place at the builders' merchant's premises, prompting calls from political figures for management to begin negotiations.

Sinn Féin MLA for Newry and Armagh, Liz Kimmins, visited the picket line alongside Dáire Hughes MP. She said strike action was a last resort for staff and reflected serious concerns, particularly as families face cost-of-living pressures.

Ms Kimmins urged senior management to engage constructively with workers and their union representatives. She stated that it was long past time for talks aimed at delivering fair pay and conditions.

The MLA also linked the dispute to wider issues of workers' rights, pointing to the importance of measures such as the Good Jobs Bill. She said workers wanted a fair resolution and were ready to negotiate.