14 April 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 next week. Unfortunately, however, it will not be possible to provide a localised interview facility during this period. Instead, all customers can continue to contact the Agency by telephoning 0845 608 0022."

NOTES TO EDITORS:

Northern Ireland Public Service Alliance (NIPSA) has announced it is taking further industrial action from Monday 19 April to Friday 23 April 2004, which will affect the Child Support Agency.

For media enquiries, contact Audrey Bertinat in the DSD Press Office on 028 9056 9620

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