Wightlink vows to do everything it can to avoid strike action
The RMT union's members who work for the ferry operator are unhappy at proposed job changes
Ferry operator Wightlink says it is doing everything it can to avoid a strike after a union announced plans to ballot its members for industrial action over jobs.
Members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union will vote in the coming weeks on whether to launch strikes.
A company spokesperson said: "We are disappointed by the RMT's decision to ballot for strike action when we are openly working with them to discuss the proposal and consider colleague feedback.
"The proposal they are balloting on is still in negotiation and we are committed to finding an agreed outcome.
"Our proposals are essential for the future sustainability of Wightlink, to improve flexibility and efficiency whilst not reducing any services or investment in our port and fleet.
"While legally we had to inform 160 colleagues that their roles were at risk, there are only 50 positions that may go and alongside this there are over 30 new vacancies in the proposed new structure.
"We are doing everything we can to avoid disruption and strike action as we know the negative impact this has on our customers who rely on our services.
"We continue to work with the RMT to find a reasonable solution while future-proofing the business to serve our island and mainland customers now and in the future."
The union said the plans threaten 160 jobs and undermine safety on board.
The company wants to cut deck officer and port operator grades, close overnight onboard retail and reduce crewing levels across vessels, said the union.
The RMT union says these plans will strip out safety-critical roles, downgrade services and pile pressure on staff.