Ballot on industrial action on cross-Solent ferries has been cancelled
The RMT Union agreed to call of the ballot after talks with Wightlink
A planned ballot on strike action on cross-Solent Wightlink ferries has been called off after talks.
Strikes were planned by the National Rail, Maritime and Transport Union (RMT) after the leading cross-Solent ferry company announced proposals to cut fifty jobs.
Following constructive talks with Wightlink, the RMT have withdrawn the ballot for industrial action and confirmed they are no longer in dispute.
Wightlink in turn have withdrawn its original proposal and agreed to ongoing discussions with the RMT to find improvements for the long-term sustainability of the company.
It is part of Wightlink’s five-year company plan to modernise the business and to make improvements for passengers.
Wightlink CEO Katy Taylor said “We’re pleased that we have managed to reach this important step."
"We take our responsibility as a lifeline service seriously and we are doing everything we can to avoid industrial action as we know the impact it has on our customers.
“We will continue talks with the RMT and hope to agree a way forward for changes which are needed to further improve our services, increase flexibility and to add additional sailings.”
Wightlink and the RMT have agreed to continue discussions as Wightlink looks to modernise its service