26 March 2004

FURTHER INDUSTRIAL ACTION IN CHILD SUPPORT AGENCY

The Department for Social Development has expressed frustration at NIPSA’s intention to take further industrial action which will affect the Child Support Agency next week.

A spokesperson for the Agency said: "The Department has already expressed its concern at NIPSA’s decision to target the Child Support Agency. We are disappointed that a vulnerable section of the community is again being hit by this industrial action.

"However, management will be implementing contingency plans to minimise the impact of the action and I would like to reassure people that we will maintain as full a service as possible during this period."

NOTES TO EDITORS:

1. Northern Ireland Public Service Alliance (NIPSA) has announced it is taking further industrial action from Monday 29 March to Friday 2 April 2004 which will affect the Child Support Agency.
2. Northern Ireland customers can continue to contact the agency through the normal number: 0845 608 0022
3. Eastern Business Unit customers should phone 0845 609 0092.
4. For media enquiries contact Audrey Bertinat in the DSD Press Office on 028 9056 9620.

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