Wightlink, the ferry operator serving the Isle of Wight and Hampshire, has proposed staff reductions impacting up to 50 positions as part of its efficiency project. The RMT union warns that this could jeopardize 160 jobs, threatening industrial action unless plans are retracted. Concerns over safety and service quality have been raised.
The RMT seafarers’ union cites the Fishguard–Rosslare ferry route to advocate for a legally enforceable seafarers’ charter, emphasizing job security and safety. With a 10% passenger increase on Stena Line, contrasted by a 50% decline on Irish Ferries, the union highlights the benefits of fair pay and collective bargaining for seafarers.
The RMT transport union is pushing for changes to help seafarers, citing a study showing many lack access to shore leave. Shockingly, 26% get no leave, while 70% rarely go ashore during their contracts. General secretary Eddie Dempsey warns of fatigue due to inaccurate work hour reporting. He urges global reforms for seafarers’ well-being.
RMT seafarers at Foreland Shipping have rejected the company’s pay offer, citing dissatisfaction with only 85% of union members. The General Secretary emphasized the need for fair compensation for the skilled workforce supporting the UK Ministry of Defence. Negotiations are ongoing, but the possibility of strike action remains if a resolution is not reached.
The Maritime union RMT criticizes the decrease in UK resident seafarers despite an increase in seafarer jobs. Only seven percent of UK Ratings hold these jobs, with most demand met by non-EEA seafarers. RMT calls for better regulation of working conditions and Tonnage Tax reforms to support UK Ratings in the maritime industry.
RMT General Secretary Mick Lynch strongly supports amendments to the Employment Rights Bill in response to the P&O Ferries scandal. He calls it a shameful episode and emphasizes the importance of a mandatory Seafarers Charter to protect jobs and prevent exploitation. The RMT is committed to working with the government to improve conditions for seafarers.
Seafarers from the Royal Fleet Auxiliary brought their fight for fair pay to the Labour Party conference in Liverpool ahead of planned strikes by RMT and Nautilus International members. The unions are demanding fair wages, criticizing the government for neglecting essential workers and calling for tangible support instead of empty promises.
RFA workers marked the International Day of the Seafarer with a 24-hour strike over pay issues. Ports and ships worldwide joined the protest, with RMT members at Cammell Laird shipyard in solidarity. Approximately half of the workforce participated, with contractors also refusing to work. The strike aims to secure fair pay and recognition for seafarers’ vital contributions globally.
P&O FERRIES CEO Peter Hebblethwaite faced backlash for admitting workers were paid under £5 an hour. The TUC criticized his lack of remorse for illegal sackings and poverty pay. Despite earning £508,000, Hebblethwaite defended the low wages, sparking calls for a New Deal for Working People to protect seafarers from exploitation.
Sonowal makes strong pitch for ‘India Growth Story’ at Global Investor Summit in Andhra Pradesh 05 Mar 2023Union Minister Sarbananda…
