Almost 100 union members strike at Fawley refinery
GMB members who work as boilermakers, welders, pipefitters and scaffolders at Fawley oil refinery today [Monday] begin a two week strike
Almost 100 members will take part in the strike, which has the potential to impact on fuel supplies.
The GMB union claims, the employers Altrad, Bilfinger and Rhyal and their client ExxonMobil have failed to formally give the union an offer it can put to its members.
Bryan Hulley, GMB Organiser said:
“Quite simply the employers are solely responsible for this walk out.
“Despite the promises that they will make an offer to our members, we are yet to get a formal offer on the table.
“The belligerent stance the employers have taken - refusing to talk until the union suspend the strike, is seen by our members - as just a further excuse not to find a settlement with a workforce who thoroughly deserve a pay increase.
“The companies have had ample notice of the impending dispute to get around the table to negotiate.
"We have now issued notice to the employers of a further two weeks action to follow the two weeks we already intend to take."
Earlier this month an ExxonMobil spokesperson said: “This matter involves staff employed by contracting companies onsite, and relates to ongoing discussions over an incentive payment as part of nationally-agreed terms and conditions.
“We are disappointed at the outcome of the ballot and encourage union representatives to continue to work with employers to reach a resolution.
“We have a large and flexible workforce at Fawley and have resource plans to cover a range of scenarios. We do not anticipate any customer impact should action occur.”