Business / ‘Furious’ Worley workers at Sullom Voe vote for strike action
UNION members working for contractor Worley at Sullom Voe Terminal including technicians, electricians and pipefitters have backed strike action.
Unite members have unanimously supported strike action and action short of a strike by 100 per cent on a 95 per cent turnout.
Members of GMB Scotland have also voted in favour of industrial action including strikes.
There is understood to be around 70 workers involved in total.
Unite said the dispute centres on its members demanding a significant uplift in pay, and improvements to other terms and conditions.
This includes the establishment of a trade union recognition agreement with Worley Services at the oil terminal in order to formally bargain on jobs, pay and conditions.
Around 40 Unite workers are involved in the dispute, and they include technicians, electricians, pipefitters and riggers.
GMB said its members, including scaffolders and construction staff, rejected the imposition of a four per cent pay rise and have demanded that Worley and Sullom Voe operator EnQuest negotiate with the unions on the site.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Unite’s members at Sullom Voe oil terminal employed by Worley Services have unanimously backed industrial action.
“Let’s remember that they are essential to the operations at the terminal. They deserve a fair pay deal. Unite will always stand up for our members fighting for better jobs, pay and conditions.”
John Clark, Unite regional industrial officer, said: “The workers are rightly furious at the way they are being treated by Worley Services at Sullom Voe.
“Not only has the company failed to make a fair pay offer to the members but they are also refusing to enter a site agreement with Unite to formally discuss pay and conditions.
“Our members are fully prepared to fight for a workplace agreement which not only covers them this year but for years to come.”
GMB general organiser Alan Ritchie said: “Our members have a number of ongoing issues on site, including pay, which will only be resolved through negotiation.
“Worley and EnQuest must engage with our members, recognise the unions, and find that resolution.”
Worley has been approached for a response, while a spokesperson said EnQuest would not be commenting on the matter.
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