OFFSHORE JOBS AND RIGHTS BREAKTHROUGH

RMT helpline 0800 376 3706 :: nov/dec 2025 :: RMTnews 14 RMT’s campaigning has delivered a major step forward for offshore and maritime workers with the government committing itself to closing long-standing loopholes in employment law and boost investment in skills and training. This is part of a government announcement of plans to deliver 400,000 extra jobs in the clean energy sector by 2030. RMT general secretary Eddie Dempsey said that this was proof that when workers are organised and demand change, real progress can be achieved. “RMT welcomes the government’s commitment to closing loopholes in maritime and offshore employment law, which should in turn create domestic opportunities in coastal communities that support the entirety of the offshore wind supply chain. "This plan has the potential to create hundreds of thousands of good jobs across the UK, offering real opportunities for those wishing to transition from oil and gas and for a new generation of workers in their own communities. "It is important that these commitments are enshrined in legislation covering our supply chains, if we are to stop bad employers undercutting pay and conditions. "That means effective enforcement of minimum standards on wages and working conditions, clear rights for every worker, and collective bargaining at the heart of any changes so that workers have a real voice." Mr Dempsey also highlighted the need to deal with flags of convenience and the gaps in protections for offshore workers needing to be closed. "We have the chance to lead the world in clean energy, which will only be achieved through long-term investment that develops and protects a skilled UK workforce,” he said. RMT national secretary Darren Procter said that the announcement was a direct result of pressure from RMT members, many of whom have been exposed to widespread exploitation in the industry. “We are still seeing jobs advertised in the renewables sector paying below the minimum wage. "These are aimed at workers with the right to work in the UK, but with no legal protections on pay or conditions. "That is exploitation, not the quality jobs we were promised in a just transition. "That’s why we welcomed Ed Miliband’s pledge of a Fair Work Charter – guaranteeing decent wages, collective bargaining for RMT, and protections whether you are onshore, offshore, on land or at sea. "This is a step forward that comes from your union’s campaigning. And we must stay vigilant to make sure promises are turned into law, with enforcement that stops rogue bosses exploiting our people," he said. He highlighted the strong national collective agreements like ODIA, COTA and ESA, which benefit members and create a level playing field. "We believe these frameworks should be extended into renewables to ensure jobs in the transition are good, union jobs," he added. RMT Scottish offshore organiser Ann Joss said that RMT’s organising approach relied on everyone in the sector getting involved. “If you’re not yet a member, join us. If you are, play an active role. For reps, that means leading on recruitment and building strong workplace organisation. "We’ve achieved real progress, but our campaign won’t stop until offshore workers have the same rights and protections as those on land. "RMT will continue to push the government to turn commitments into lasting change delivering secure jobs, fair conditions and a better future for our members,” she said. OFFSHORE JOBS AND RIGHTS BREAKTHROUGH RMT campaign for legal changes and investment in jobs paying off