FIGHTING FOR FAIR PAY AT RFA

RMT helpline 0800 376 3706 :: may/june 2026 :: RMTnews 7 R MT members in the Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) have taken four days of successful strike action after overwhelm- ingly rejecting the latest pay offer. Despite the union’s sustained efforts to reach a negotiated settlement, RFA management have continued to table proposals that fall short of members’ expectations. During strike action, members will continue to ensure the safety of vessels is maintained at all times, including the management of moorings and gangways. Seafarers can routinely work up to 12 hours a day but there remains no clear or transparent formula setting out how pay is calculated against those hours. RMT general secretary Eddie Dempsey said that members in the Royal Fleet Auxiliary were taking a principled stand.  “They have made their position clear. They will not accept substandard pay offers and are prepared to take further strike action if necessary to get the pay rise they deserve.  “Our members play a vital role in supporting the Navy, often in some of the most demanding and dangerous working conditions. “But they have faced years of below par pay and unresolved concerns about conditions. “The Ministry of Defence and the employer now need to come forward with a serious, long-term commitment to improving pay and conditions, including ensuring they comply with National Minimum Wage legislation, if they are serious about retaining staff,” he said. FIGHTING FOR FAIR PAY AT RFA Royal Fleet Auxiliary seafarers take strike action