Nicola Grant, the Workers Party's Regional Spokesperson, today issued a statement in support of the healthcare workers at Daisy Hill Hospital who are participating in a fast for Gaza.

"These staff are already delivering care to patients across the Newry area, often in difficult circumstances due to staff and bed shortages," said Nicola. "Yet, they have demonstrated their immense compassion and commitment by showing solidarity with those in Gaza who are suffering from the genocide inflicted upon them by a brutal Zionist regime in Israel."

Nicola added that the healthcare workers' actions highlight a beacon of "humanity in the darkness" amidst a rise in gang activity in Northern Ireland, where groups are "roaming the streets questioning those they decide are 'foreigners.'"

The money raised by the staff for Doctors Without Borders will be a great help in providing care on the ground. However, Nicola emphasised that the true impact of their protest is in its power to "highlight the importance of standing up and speaking out." She believes their actions will encourage others to move beyond sympathy and take their own small acts of solidarity.

"The Workers Party salutes this compassionate act of solidarity," she concluded. "We are fortunate to have such caring individuals across all grades and professions within our National Health Service."