Thousands of local government workers in Northern Ireland are planning a two-day strike this week over pay.
They are joining colleagues in England and Wales in the the action, the latest stage in a long running battle with their employers.
Bins will not be emptied, but Albert Mills, senior industrial organiser with public service union Unite, said dispensation had been given to allow burials and cover for emergency services.
The union members have rejected their employer's offer of a 2.45 per cent pay increase and are demanding a 6 per cent or 50p an hour, whichever is the greater.
Mr Mills said: "Unite have a strong and consistent position on this pay deal which we believe is not in the interests of our members."
The lowest grade worker in local government is paid £5.81 per hour, just a few pence above the minimum wage, he said.
"The Northern Ireland Assembly have a responsibility to properly fund local government to ensure a decent wage for its workers and their families — this pay deal clearly does not do this and should be a source of shame and embarrassment to the Assembly and local authorities," said Mr Mills.
Striking members of Unite plan a rally outside Transport House in Belfast at noon on Wednesday — the first day of the strike.
PA