FAIR PAY FOR RFA

RMT helpline 0800 376 3706 :: january/february 2025 :: RMTnews 7 A new improved offer for Royal Fleet Auxiliary members which includes a substantial pay increase, key benefit protections and commitments to future improvements for seafarers has gone to referendum with a recommendation to accept. The union is urging members to vote in favour to secure immediate backpay and the first two salary enhancements. The new offer in their long-running dispute with the Ministry of Defence includes a three-stage salary uplift. This comprises a 6.5 per cent pay rise effective from July 2024, followed by two consolidated enhancements of £750 each, payable in November 2024 and February 2025. Altogether, the deal provides RFA workers with a pay increase of 6.5 per cent plus £1,500, significantly exceeding the current rate of inflation and representing a considerable improvement on previous offers. On top of the salary increases, the agreement retains vital benefits, such as travel voucher concessions and the bonus scheme, which will remain in place until July 2025, when the next pay agreement is expected. The offer also introduces several additional measures to improve terms and conditions for RFA workers: • A shorthand money allowance set at three per cent of basic pay. • Reduced assignment lengths to support work- life balance. • The option to cash in Earned Voyage Leave. • A review of assignment lengths and Continuous Pay arrangements. • A commitment to ratify a new Collective Bargaining Agreement. • Collaboration with the MoD to reset RFA pay, terms, and conditions comprehensively. • Retention of the RMT RFA Convenor’s role. RMT’s National Executive Committee (NEC) described the offer as the best achievable outcome through negotiations. The union stressed that the agreement positions members well for further discussions in 2025, where significant enhance- ments to pay and conditions will be pursued. RMT general secretary Mick Lynch said that throughout the dispute, Royal Fleet Auxiliary members had shown remarkable commitment and solidarity. “Their united and determined stance has demonstrated to the Ministry of Defence the strength of the RFA workforce and the union’s ability to stand firm on their behalf. I encourage every RFA member to take part in the referendum and have their say,” he said. The RFA operates 13 ships staffed by UK merchant sailors, whose responsibilities are as varied as they are critical. From delivering fuel, supplies, and equipment to supporting humanitarian missions, RFA personnel ensure the Royal Navy can fulfil its responsibilities. The union has insisted for many years that addressing the challenges faced by RFA personnel was the best way to honour their service and to ensure the continuity of their critical work. FAIR PAY FOR RFA Union secures improved pay offer for Royal Fleet Auxiliary members