Chivas Dumbarton workers announce strike action in row over pay

Workers at Chivas Kilmalid in Dumbarton have announced plans to strike, after they accused the whisky maker of ignoring them.

They'll walk out on August 7th for 24 hours.

They have had a continuous ban on overtime in place since last week.

Unite regional coordinating officer Elaine Dougall said: “Our members are angry that this offer which was tabled on 18 July and was rejected overwhelmingly in a ballot by 86 per cent fails to recognise the contribution our members make to the success of Chivas.

“We will continue to press hard for a settlement to this dispute until the eleventh hour but our members are clear, they want to see a significantly improved offer and harmonisation of terms and conditions on the table before they will consider withdrawing from industrial action.”

“This dispute will only be settled if our members get a genuine commitment from the company which is an improvement on its recent offer. If not, we will continue to act on our members’ wishes, and give them the chance to have a say on possible industrial action, including strike action.”

“Unite would urge Chivas to see sense and improve their offer and work with us to get this dispute settled.”

A Chivas Brothers Spokesperson said: “While we’re disappointed that Unite trade union members at our Kilmalid site have decided to take a one day course of industrial action, we’re pleased to confirm that our Paisley and Southern Operations sites have accepted our offer.

“Both decisions come after a period of constructive and transparent negotiation with employee representatives. Our pay offer – which exceeds the rate of inflation in the UK – ensures that our employees have a highly competitive salary and benefits package.

• Chivas