Lerwick Port Authority (LPA) says the prospect of strike action by labour body Unite is “extremely disappointing” given the fact it has made an unspecified offer to solve the pay and conditions dispute.
Unite is threatening to bring Shetland’s Lerwick harbour “to a standstill” after talks concerning pay, terms and conditions broke down and is demanding its members are paid the same rate as that at other UK ports.
A host of other issues is also on the table including changes to basic pay, overtime and pension contributions with the union insisting its dozen members at Lerwick will walk out at one minute past midnight on June 20 unless the grievances are resolved.
A strike would wreak havoc on ferry operations, cruise liners and the oil and gas industry as well as general shipping, but LPA remains confident it can cope with any disruption.
“The potential escalation of industrial action by Unite members to a full strike is extremely disappointing given a proposal is with Unite and a meeting is confirmed for next week,” said LPA chief executive, Captain Calum Grains.
“We remain committed to finding a resolution with our staff.
“With contingency measures in place, we continue to make every effort to minimise any effect on our customers.”
Unite confirmed to the Press and Journal it had received an offer from LPA last night and will now discuss the proposals with its members ahead of the 14 June meeting with the Port.
“It is a hard, fast offer which members will be made aware of,” said Unite regional officer, John Clark. “We have got a few days to see if there is anything missing or untoward.
“When (previous) talks have taken place, there has been acknowledgement by LPA there has been historically poor pay for these people.
“The reason strike action was called – we just felt they were dragging their feet. We are heading in the right direction but it has taken the threat of industrial action to speed up the process.
“This more than just a simple ‘we want 5%, 10%, 15%, this is about terms, conditions and work-life balance.”
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