Seafarers in South walk out in pay dispute

It's the second day of action for those with the Portsmouth-based Royal Fleet Auxiliary

Author: Alan Jones, PAPublished 25th Jun 2024

Seafarers at the Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) are staging a fresh strike on Tuesday (June 25th) in a dispute over pay.

Hundreds of members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport union (RMT) are walking out to coincide with International Seafarers Day, which is dedicated to recognising the essential contributions of seafarers globally.

The workers went on strike in May, with participation spanning from ports to ships in locations such as Singapore.

The union says the RFA, which is based out of Whale Island in Portsmouth, have implemented a one-year deal of 4.5% which it described as "wholly unacceptable" to RMT members.

General secretary Mick Lynch said:

"This strike represents more than just a demand for fair pay, it is a stand for the respect and acknowledgment of seafarers and their crucial role worldwide.

"On International Seafarers Day, our members will shine a light on their vital contribution to international trade and the global economy.

"We call on all members to remain steadfast and united in their pursuit of a reasonable pay increase and decent working conditions, which they rightfully deserve.

"RFA management and the Government must urgently address this dispute and recognise the significant anger and frustration among RMT members."

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