Talks To Prevent North Sea Strikes Taking Place In Aberdeen

Talks are taking place in Aberdeen today which aim to avert strikes in the North Sea.

The Offshore Contractors Association is meeting with Unite The Union and the GMB to discuss changes to shift and holiday patterns.

The Unions are currently balloting their members on whether they wish to take industrial action.

Speaking in March, Bill Murray, Chief Executive of the OCA said:

"The decision by trade union officials to go to industrial ballot over changes to shift and holiday patterns is disappointing. The need to make efficiencies and increase productivity in order to prevent further redundancies and prolong the life of the North Sea is well understood by the industry following a period of unsustainable cost inflation."

"Strike action would only serve to make investment in the North Sea less attractive and jeopardise the long term future of the industry."

"We remain committed to working closely with union representatives and our members to find a solution."