1 May 2026
SDLP Opposition Economy Spokesperson Sinéad McLaughlin MLA has questioned why workers are still waiting on the Good Jobs Bill.
She was speaking on May Day, a day marking solidarity with workers.
Foyle MLA Ms McLaughlin said:
“As we mark May Day, thousands of workers in Northern Ireland are still without the most basic rights that others across these islands take for granted. Zero-hours contracts, fire and rehire practices, weak trade union protections and unfair pay and conditions remain a reality for far too many.
“More than two years on from the return of Stormont, the Good Jobs Bill has still not been brought before the Assembly. Despite repeated promises, we have seen deadline after deadline missed by the Economy Minister. Most recently, we were told it would be introduced before the end of April, and that commitment has now been broken.
“This is vital legislation that must be delivered in this mandate. It will require proper scrutiny and engagement with businesses, but time is being wasted and opportunities are being lost. It is incumbent on the Minister and her Executive colleagues to act now and bring this forward without further delay.
“We cannot afford to miss this opportunity to finally deliver the rights and protections workers here deserve.”