Royal Navy tugboat crews vote in strike ballot

Royal Navy tug boat crews are being balloted for strike action amid claims they are being locked out of contract discussions.

The crews, at Devonport, Portsmouth, Faslane, Greenock and Kyle of Lochalsh, are employed by Serco Marine, which is in talks about renewing its Royal Navy contract.

Unite, the union, said not involving the workers was "seriously endangering the fleet's ability to function safely".

Serco Marine said it was "committed to keeping union members updated on any proposed changes".

As part of their roles, the tugboat and marine services crews are responsible for the movement of nuclear submarines, aircraft carriers and other naval vessels in and out of ports.

Unite said Serco Marine was in talks with the Ministry of Defence (MoD) about renewing its 10-year £1.2bn contract but the proposed changes would impact on the crews' ability to provide a 24/7, 365-days-a-year service.

It said workers had been involved in previous contract negotiations, providing insight of operations.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: "Both Serco and the MoD need to listen to these workers. They are seafarers with decades of experience.

"Without their input, the proposed contract risks losing vital jobs and the invaluable working knowledge that comes with them, seriously endangering the fleet's ability to function safely."

About 300 tugboat and marine services crews are being contacted in the ballot, which runs from 3 February for two weeks.

Unite national officer John McGookin said: "Our members have been forced to ballot for strike action because of their concerns that the new contract will result in afloat services that are not fit for purpose."

A Serco spokesperson said: "Our discussions with the MoD regarding their requirements for the next generation in-port contract remain ongoing and we are committed to keeping union members updated on any proposed changes.

"At present, the level of service we provide on our current contract remains unchanged."

A Ministry of Defence spokesperson said: "Royal Navy operational priorities - including the Continuous At Sea Deterrent and aircraft carriers - will not be affected during the proposed strike.

"While this is a matter between the contractor and their workforce, we stand by to assist in the resolution process where appropriate."

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