Unite official Stephen Deans resigns from Grangemouth

The official from the Unite union at the centre of the Grangemouth industrial dispute has resigned from his job. Stephen Deans had previously been suspended following which Unite members voted […]

The official from the Unite union at the centre of the Grangemouth industrial dispute has resigned from his job.

Stephen Deans had previously been suspended following which Unite members voted for strike action over his treatment, leading to the temporary shutdown of the plant.

It was on the cusp of closing last week, which would have led to hundreds of job losses and caused disruption to Scotland’s petrol and diesel supplies.

Mr Deans had been accused of trying to rig the votes of a candidate in his role as chairman of the Labour Party in the Falkirk constituency.

Operator INEOS was due to reveal the outcome of the investigation into his conduct today but he resigned from the company yesterday with immediate effect.

INEOS said in a statement: “The company has conducted a thorough investigation into Mr Deans’ activities over the last 18 months and made Mr Deans aware of these findings last week. Mr Deans requested an additional five days prior to the final disciplinary hearing to allow him time to provide any further relevant information.

“The company was due to meet with Mr Deans again tomorrow but has now received his resignation.”

The Grangemouth oil and petrochemical plant was saved from closure last week after INEOS agreed a deal with the union.

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