Ferry Staff Strike Action Suspended

A further day of strike action planned for later this week by west of Scotland ferry workers has been suspended.

The maritime union RMT called a halt to Friday's proposed strike by CalMac and Argyll Ferries staff to allow for continuing discussion with all parties linked to the dispute.

Two-thirds of services were suspended on the last Friday of June as CalMac staff sought reassurances over the future of the Clyde and Hebrides operations.

It came amid fears a tendering process could see routes change hands from the publicly-owned company to private firm Serco.

The RMT union had planned a further day of action for Friday, when workers would be asked not to book on to shifts.

Members working for Argyll Ferries were also set to strike the same day as they too seek assurances about job security, conditions and pensions.

But in a letter to members, the RMT has suspended the strike and instructed all members to work normally.

RMT general secretary Mick Cash said that following discussions with the Scottish Government, the tendering process has been delayed to allow further negotiation on the issues of jobs, staffing, conditions and pensions.

Mr Cash wrote: "Following further discussions this afternoon, and the Scottish Government agreeing to delay the publication of the Draft Invitation to Tender until 31st July 2015, RMT has agreed to suspend the current industrial action planned for Friday 10th July affecting CHFS (Clyde and Hebrides Ferry Services) and Argyll ferries services.

"This suspension is to allow detailed discussions with all parties regarding the modest demands made by RMT around no compulsory redundancies, staffing levels, protection of terms and conditions and pensions.''