Unite Members Reject Latest OCA Proposals

Unite union members have rejected the latest proposals by the Offshore Contractors’ Association (OCA) over changes to conditions for offshore workers in the North Sea, increasing the likelihood of industrial action.

The latest development follows last month’s news that unions put official industrial action ballots on hold while considering an improved offer from the OCA. Both Unite and GMB unions called for strike action in May 2015, following the OCA’s proposals to change working conditions for offshore workers in UK waters.

A Unite statement revealed that 63.5 percent of members balloted voted against the OCA’s offer to move to a three-week-on, three-week-off shift pattern, with a variable remuneration offer to mitigate the impact on terms and conditions caused by the changes to working-time arrangements.

Unite industrial officer Willie Wallace commented in a Unite release:

“We said previously that our members would have the final say and they are clear that the OCA offer isn’t good enough. North Sea employers must do more to address the deep concerns our members have over these shift pattern changes, from loss of earnings and livelihoods to the impact on workplace health and safety and quality of life.

“We are not blind to the challenges facing the industry, indeed we are acutely aware of it because the human cost of the downturn is clear in the deep cuts to our members’ incomes and livelihoods. However, the lesson the industry has to take from this process is that it must consult and engage with our members in a far more meaningful manner and that any changes impacting lives and livelihoods should not be imposed.”

Bill Murray, the chief executive of the Offshore Contractors’ Association, said in an OCA statement:


12

View Full Article

WHAT DO YOU THINK?


Generated by readers, the comments included herein do not reflect the views and opinions of Rigzone. All comments are subject to editorial review. Off-topic, inappropriate or insulting comments will be removed.

John  |  August 01, 2015
Oh poor little mammas boys. Cant work three weeks offshore because its so stressful. I wouldnt want one of em on any rig Ive worked on. They deserve to be laid off and its coming if the North Sea cant reduce its costs. I wouldnt hire anybody from the North Sea without a thorough attitude check. Ill bet any East European would queue through the night to get one of their jobs and deservedly so.


Most Popular Articles