WIN AT WIGHTLINK

www.rmt.org.uk :: april 2007 :: RMTnews 5 S trike action planned for March 26 at Wightlink Guernsey Ltd on the Portsmouth to Isle of Wight ferry service was suspended by the union after the company agreed not to impose new rosters on staff as planned. A ballot was held for strike action and action short of a strike following management’s decision to impose a roster which would have increased unsociable hours been detrimental to member’s pay. The ballot returned an overwhelming vote in favour of action on both questions. A revised roster has been accepted to commence for a four week period and will be further considered by the Roster Committee. In compensation for the new 0510 start times, management has agreed to make an additional £25 payment to all core staff working the new rostered turns. Other matters were also resolved including clarification of the promotion process. New staff will also be paid at time plus 25 per cent for hours worked outside local agreements. Where members are unable to use public transport to get to work, the company will now meet reasonable additional costs for taxis where proof is provided. General secretary Bob Crow congratulated the Wightlink membership for their strong stance and the magnificent yes vote in the strike ballot. “This just goes to show how results can be achieved when members stand firm. “I must also pay tribute to our local reps who have worked tirelessly to resolve the dispute,” he said. WIN AT WIGHTLINK