Story perspectives
72,000 Attacks on Health Workers in Northern Ireland
1/13/2026
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Story summary
- More than 72,000 attacks on health and care staff occurred in Northern Ireland over five years, per the Department of Health.
- Diane Dodds, a member of the Democratic Unionist Party, called the figures appalling.
- Health Minister Mike Nesbitt condemned the attacks and affirmed a zero-tolerance approach.
- John Patrick Clayton of Unison noted an average of 32 daily attacks and a 2023 framework to prevent violence.
