Unite the union says it has called for urgent talks with engineering firm Wood Group ahead of more planned strike action in the North Sea.
Nearly 400 workers in the Unite and RMT unions who work for Wood Group on Shell platforms in the UK North Sea have so far staged two walkouts, for 24 hours on 26 July, and 48 hours starting 4 August, over up to 30% pay cuts and changes to allowances. The action is the first in the UK North Sea in 28 years.
Yesterday, the union confirmed dates for further strike action by members employed by Wood Group, starting on Monday 15 August.
Unite regional officer John Boland said: “Last week Wood Group refused to take these proposed cuts off the table in order to allow proper negotiations. Now we have been told that the company is not willing to have talks until next week at the earliest. We find that astonishing.
“The company needs to start taking this dispute seriously. No-one takes industrial action lightly, but our members are staying united in the face of this unwarranted attack on their pay and conditions. These further strike dates show their determination.
“We know the North Sea oil and gas industry is facing challenges, but companies have to realize that they can’t prop up their profits or create a sustainable industry by attacking their workers.”
Last week, Dave Stewart, CEO for Wood Group’s eastern region business unit said: “We had agreed to suspend the implementation of the terms and conditions currently proposed to enable further detailed discussions with our employees and the unions. We believed the unions had also agreed to this during our meeting on Monday, which was attended by union representatives, shop stewards and Wood Group management. We were extremely disappointed by the last minute change to what we feel was a very constructive way forward and are actively seeking clarity on why this decision was taken.
“We have urged the unions to show willingness to reengage with us with a clear objective of reaching a resolution that safeguards employment opportunities for our employees, both now and in the future."
Last night Shell said: "Shell is disappointed to learn of the decision by Unite and the RMT to embark upon further industrial action.
"The UK oil and gas industry faces unprecedented challenges in light of the lower oil price environment. Structural change is essential if the North Sea is to remain competitive. We would encourage Wood Group management and employees to continue with their discussions so that a resolution to this action may be found."
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