Union calls on Sellafield nuclear management to re-open talks

Members of the GMB union working at the Sellafield nuclear decommissioning site are calling on the management to re-open talks in the dispute over pay. The union suggests members are […]

Members of the GMB union working at the Sellafield nuclear decommissioning site are calling on the management to re-open talks in the dispute over pay.

The union suggests members are seeking a “fair resolution” but in the absence of “meaningful talks”, the GMB Strike Committee will decide on Monday when the first industrial action will take place this month.

Sellafield offered a 1.5% pay rise in June which was rejected by 88% of GMB members.

Earlier this week, the workers at the facility voted in favour of strike action.

GMB Senior Organiser Chris Jukes said: “We call on Sellafield Limited to reconsider its position in the light of the overwhelming decision by GMB’s 2,600 members on site to strike. GMB remains available at any time for meaningful negotiations.”

The Unite union is also due to ballot its 2,000 members at Sellafield.

Sellafield believes the 1.5% pay increase is “fair and reasonable”.

A spokesperson added: “We made that offer based on company affordability and have been consistent throughout discussions with Unite, Prospect and GMB, who represent different sections of our workforce. Prospect, which has collective bargaining rights for more than half of our workforce, has accepted the offer.

“Our focus, as always, will be to ensure the site remains safe and secure at all times, including during any action which may take place.”

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