Ulster Unionist Finance Spokesperson, Steve Aiken MLA, has said that urgent clarity is needed on the implications that a large number of public sector workers, as well as those in the private sector, could be entitled to backdated holiday pay.
Dr Steve Aiken said:
“The Court of Appeal ruling this week that PSNI staff are now owed money for a shortfall in pay going back 20 years was a hugely significant decision.
“As far as I am concerned it is only right and proper that workers are paid the money that they are entitled to.
“The ruling does however pose a number of hugely significant questions. Firstly, we need to know the budgetary implications for the Northern Ireland Civil Service and its associated public bodies. That is why I have today contacted Sue Gray asking her to convene an urgent meeting with the local Parties to focus on that very point.
“Secondly, we need to know the legal implications for the tens of thousands of workers across the private sector who regularly perform overtime duties. Whilst it is important to ensure workers receive the money they are entitled to, we must also remain mindful of the countless business owners who are no doubt concerned by this ruling.”