Junior doctors’ strike looms: BMA Wales calls for action

As reported by BMA, Welsh junior doctors committee strike to secure full pay restoration

In a pivotal move, the Welsh BMA junior doctors committee has unanimously voted to ballot its members on the possibility of industrial action. This decision comes just two weeks after the rejection of the Welsh Government’s 5% pay offer, signalling a resolute commitment to securing full pay restoration in Wales and the wider UK.

Solidarity Across the UK

August marked significant developments in the campaign for full pay restoration. The month witnessed the appointment of new co-chairs, the enrolment of over 400 new junior doctor members in Wales, a 12.4% pay uplift acceptance by junior doctors in Scotland, and an overwhelming 98% “Yes” vote by junior doctors in England to continue industrial action. Even after five rounds of strikes, the unwavering determination of junior doctors in England has become evident, with an impressive 7,000+ members voting in favour of continued industrial action.

72-Hour Full Walkout on the Horizon

In the event of a successful ballot, the strike action planned by BMA Wales will commence with a 72-hour walkout. This will encompass all junior doctors, including those on evening, night, weekend, and emergency cover duties.

A Strategic Approach

The campaign’s strategy remains adaptable, ready to evolve as negotiations with the Welsh Government progress. While expediting pay restoration remains the top priority, ensuring a resounding mandate through a successful ballot is essential. Therefore, a few more weeks will be dedicated to ensuring accurate member data before launching the ballot. Although exact dates cannot be provided, conducting the ballot before the year’s end is a goal, with strikes scheduled for the upcoming Winter period.

Your Role in Accelerating Change

Members are encouraged to participate actively in the campaign. This includes recruiting more junior doctors, verifying their details for eligibility to vote, and engaging in workplace initiatives such as pay and pizza events, ward-walking, and encouraging colleagues to become pay activists and join local WhatsApp strike groups.

Regular updates will be communicated through emails, blogs, Twitter, Facebook accounts, and WhatsApp strike groups to keep members informed and engaged throughout this journey.

The Welsh BMA junior doctors committee expresses gratitude for the unwavering support received so far, acknowledging the momentum it has gained.