Published:
6:00 am 10 August 2022
Contingency plans are being drawn up with eight days of strike action following the rejection of the latest wage offer by businesses in the Port of Felixstow and Suffolk.
The hourly branch of the United Workers’ Union on Monday (August 8) rejected the “better conditions” offered to workers by the Port of Felixstow of a £500 lump sum and a 7% wage increase.
A port spokesman confirmed that internal discussions were taking place on possible contingency measures, which could be introduced as the proposed walkout proceeds from August 21.
Meanwhile, the Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, which represents firms in the county, is also recommending that companies prepare in case of industrial action.
Toby Warren, senior policy officer for the Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, has called on businesses to prepare for possible strike action.
– credit: Nikki West Photography
Toby Warren, senior policy officer for the Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, said: “This time we’re hoping a settlement will be reached before strike action is taken, but we’re advising businesses to make contingency plans.”
He was not giving advice on specific measures, but said these would depend on the type of business and how much it was up to Felixstow.
Although Unite’s staff branch and the Police Federation of Felixstow Dock and Railway Company have agreed to make a similar offer to their members, Unite’s hourly branch has rejected the “better position” and refused to offer it to its members. has refused.
The Felixstowe Port Users Association (FPUA) is an independent body for companies that conduct business activities in or through the port.
A spokesman for the FPUA said the organization was also concerned about the situation, and in particular the refusal of the unit’s hourly branch to offer new pay to its members.
In a statement on Tuesday, a port spokesman said: “We are disappointed and regret that despite our best efforts we are still unable to reach an agreement with Unite’s hourly branch.
“During talks yesterday, the port further improved its position by offering an additional £500 lump sum of 7%.
“Unite’s Staff Branch and the Police Federation of Felixstow Dock and Railway Company have agreed to make a similar offer to their members.
“In contrast, Unite’s hourly branch has again rejected the port’s superior condition and refused to pass it on to its members.
“We urge them to consult their members on the latest proposal at the earliest.
“The strike will result in no winner, resulting in their members only losing money they would have earned otherwise.
“Our focus has been on finding a solution that works for our employees and protects the future success of the port. The union has turned down the company’s offer to meet again.
Unite has called on the port to make a “reasonable” pay offer.