NI strikes: Unions set to take to picket lines in ‘unprecedented’ day of action

Can / should I travel and which roads will be gritted?Well if you're relying on public transport, then it's a very firm no on the travel stakes, as bus and train services are cancelled. As regards the roads, the Department for Infrastructure has warned that no travel should be undertaken unless absolutely necessary. The motorways and the A1 will be gritted but a spokesperson added that it would be a "struggle to deliver any other element of the winter service programme". Colin Sykes from the Department for Infrastructure said: "Road conditions will be particularly hazardous, I would just say only travel if you absolutely have to and you are going to be very careful on the road network.”

He added: "The motorway network and the A1 fall under a contract that we deliver. Some of our high ground we're able to use contractors for snow clearance in particularly difficult areas. We are making contingency plans to do as much as we can.

"Road conditions will be particularly hazardous. Reduce speeds, be very mindful of other drivers and be aware that road conditions can change as you travel.”

Unions have been asked a second time for a derogation which would allow further treatment of roads, he said.

"They have said in the event of an emergency that staff would be available,” he said.

"I can understand why unions and their members have taken these steps," he said. "It's an unprecedented position we're in."