Royal Navy Dreadnought submarines and Type 26 frigates built at
Cammell Laird shipyard are set for delays after workers
today [Monday 20 November 2023] voted to strike.
More than 400 members of Unite and the GMB unions are
ready to walk out in a dispute over pay and
conditions.
Workers include welders, pipefitters, electricians, fitters,
labourers and cleaners as well as office staff voted to
strike with a majority of 96 per cent in favour on a near 75 per
cent turnout
They are currently working on Dreadnought submarines and Type 26
frigates for the Royal Navy. Any industrial action would see
significant delays to the construction process. The action
could also impact Seatruck, Stenna and Calmac ferries
as well as support vessels for the oil and gas industry.
Dates for strike action will be announced in due course.
Members have also raised individual and collective grievances
regarding bullying and harassment and Unite has
submitted a petition signed by hundreds of members
regarding victimisation of trade union members and there
have been complaints about sexual harassment and disability
discrimination.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Cammell Laird
has signed contracts worth hundreds of millions with the UK
government to build and maintain its ships, yet it
thinks it can get away with cutting our members’ pay in real
terms.
“Unite won’t stand for such behaviour or any attempts by
management to bully, harass or discriminate our members.”
GMB Organiser Albie McGuigan, said: “These are skilled workers
doing vital work for the Royal Navy and the commercial
sector.
“Yet because of Cammell Laird’s poor response to
their pay claim and unnecessary
delays they’re struggling to keep up with the
cost of living. It’s no wonder
they’re frustrated, angry and have voted to strike with a
huge majority”
