Strike action at Red Funnel has been postponed, as the cross-Solent ferry service reaches 'potential agreement' with union members.
Scheduled industrial action on Tuesday (tomorrow), Friday (26) and Monday (29) August will no longer take place.
As previously reported by Isle of Wight Radio, Red Funnel has seen disruption to its services over the past month, due to an ongoing row over pay.
Around 20 per cent of the workforce (120 Unite the Union members) have been taking industrial action.
An offer will now go to the ballot papers to allow union members to vote.
Fran Collins, Chief Executive at Red Funnel, said:
“We are pleased to have reached a potential agreement with Unite the Union following discussions over the past week, ensuring our valued teams can be recognised and rewarded.
“As a lifeline service, it has been essential that we considered the sustainability of the business throughout our discussions, during a period of rising fuel costs and the post-pandemic recovery.
“Our offer - which has been recommended by Unite the Union - will now go to the ballot papers to allow members to vote. We expect the ballot results to be published by Monday 29th August During the ballot process industrial action will be postponed. Scheduled industrial action on Tuesday 23rd August, Friday 26th August and Monday 29th August will no longer take place and, please refer to our website for the latest travel information.
“We are fully committed to doing all we can to ensure maximum travel choice and connectivity for island residents, visitors and businesses, promoting the long-term success of the Island economy.”
Following extensive negotiations, Unite said around 120 of its members, working as customer service staff, shunters and ratings, will return to work as normal during the ballot.
If the deal is rejected, then further strike action will be scheduled.
Unite regional officer Ian Woodland said:
“Following an improved offer from Red Funnel, strike action has been suspended. Our members will now be balloted on the new offer.”
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