NORTHERN IRELAND
Rainbow lanyards, introduced as an option for Northern Ireland Public Servants, have drawn fire from the head of one of the Province’s political parties.
Head of the Public Service, David Sterling launched the neckwear with a tweet:
“Proud to launch our new rainbow lanyards. A visible way to demonstrate LGBT inclusion in the workplace.”
He said anyone in the Public Service could choose to wear one if they wished to show support for LGBT colleagues in this way.
However, the leader of the Traditional Unionist Voice Party, Jim Allister said a number of Public Servants had contacted him as they are concerned over the lanyards.
“Recently, in connection with the launch of the LGBT lanyard, you said: ‘I want everyone to feel comfortable to be their true self in work’,” Mr Allister said in a letter to Mr Sterling.
“Can I ask you, therefore, if you want those who, for reasons of conscience or religious conviction, feel unable to endorse or promote the LGBT lifestyle, to feel uncomfortable and untrue to themselves in the workplace? Or, have you no thought for them? ”
Responding to Mr Allister’s letter, a spokesperson for the Executive Office stated that the Public Service was committed to a diverse, inclusive and supportive workplace for all colleagues.
“Rainbow lanyards are a simple and effective way to demonstrate LGBT inclusion and are worn by staff in organisations across all sectors. Rainbow lanyards are entirely voluntary and colleagues can choose whether or not they wish to wear one,” the spokesperson said.
Meanwhile, Public Servants working in County Fermanagh took strike action for a day in response to a below inflation pay increase for the ninth year running.
General Secretary of the Northern Ireland Public Service Alliance (NIPSA), Alison Millar said the decision had not been taken lightly.
“However, our members are angry that they have received, for the ninth year running a below inflation pay increase. In addition their terms and conditions of employment are under attack,” Ms Millar said.
Belfast, 6 August, 2019
