Nautilus: 'We'll stop industrial action when SPC withdraws dismissal letters'

Union encourages company to make a 'genuine offer' without 'fire and rehire' threat

Maritime trade union Nautilus has confirmed its members on board Steam Packet vessels will stop industrial action when the company withdraws notices of termination.

They were issued three days before Christmas.

From 27 December onwards officers have refused to work overtime, or in positions outside of their contracted rank, after voting in favour of industrial action earlier that month.

You can find out more HERE.

This forced the Steam Packet to introduce a reduced schedule which included one return daily sailing for passengers only with freight being carried by MV Arrow.  

The move follows discussions facilitated by the Manx Industrial Relations Service – further talks are expected to take place from 15 January.

‘Upon confirmation that notices have been withdrawn by the employer, Manx Sea Transport Guernsey Limited, Nautilus members working onboard Steam Packet vessels will be advised to cease industrial action.’ – Nautilus

Nautilus maintains it's willing to discuss a resolution and is encouraging Steam Packet management to make a ‘genuine offer’ that is acceptable without the threat of ‘fire and rehire’.

It adds it expects the employer to ‘honour the status quo’ whilst a negotiated position is concluded, abide by the collective bargaining agreement and commit to arbitration, should the latest talks fail to find an agreement.

Today (5 January) the Steam Packet said it was 'confident' the issues - which centre around live onboard arrangements - can be resolved to the benefit of all parties. 

You can find out more HERE.