Social workers striking for a �4,000 increase in the starting salary

More than 1,600 members of the public trade union Nipsa are taking industrial action on Wednesday and Thursday.

The decision to strike followed a breakdown in talks with management on Monday.

Social workers say they earn up to �4,000 less than other similar employees in the Health Service.

They want an increase in the starting salary from �18,000 to �22,000.

Nipsa, which is the biggest public service union in Northern Ireland, represents the majority of qualified social workers.

It says more than 85% who participated in a secret ballot supported the strike action.

Nipsa members plan to take further industrial action later in April.

From next week, union members will also refuse to work overtime.

It is a very demanding and difficult job, and it can be a thankless job, and that's all the more reason why proper rates of pay are required Brian Campfield Nipsa

Nipsa deputy general secretary Brian Campfield said higher wages were needed to attract more people to social work, as there was a large vacancy rate in the profession which was putting added pressure on the system.

Mr Campfield said social workers were reluctant to strike, and said they were frustrated with the employers for refusing to engage in proper negotiations over their pay claim.

He said that emergency cover would be maintained during the industrial action.

"It is a very demanding and difficult job, and it can be a thankless job, and that's all the more reason why proper rates of pay are required," he said.

John Doherty of Foyle Trust regional management in Londonderry said the strike action had an adverse effect on services.

He said regional negotiations taking place could provide a "very real opportunity" to address the parties' differences and ensure no repeat of industrial action.