Nurses are lobbying politicians for health improvements

The Royal College of Nursing has said it hopes to raise issues such as a ban on smoking, more school nurses and the recruitment and retention of nurses.

Voters will go to the polls for the general and council elections on 5 May.

RCN Northern Ireland Director Martin Bradley said nurses here fully supported the union's six point plan.

"In line with calls in our manifesto, the RCN in Northern Ireland has been campaigning recently to get a ban on smoking in all public places and workplaces," he said.

"We would like to see a ban similar to what has been introduced in the Republic of Ireland which has been highly successful in protecting from the dangers of passive smoking, helping to cut smoking levels and demonstrating leadership and vision in public health.

"Additionally, if we are serious about cutting the rise of obesity and improving the health of children and young people then every child must have access to a school nurse.