Seafarers’ union RMT failed to turn up to consultation talks on Thursday over pension cuts affecting Cal Mac ferry crews.
Both sides are embroiled in a strike threat over proposed cuts to workers’ pay and conditions.
Seagoing crews fear their wages and pensions will be squeezed for Cal Mac to lodge a tighter priced tender for a forthcoming competitive tender for the west coast ferry network.
Even a handful of ratings going on strike could stop an undermanned ferry from sailing.
Ferry union fails to turn up for pension cut talks
21 May 2015
Crews are currently voting on whether to strike and work-
Cal Mac said non union staff representatives were present at today’s discussions
but there was no-
A spokesman for David MacBrayne said: “We are disappointed that the RMT have chosen not to participate in a consultation meeting today regarding our proposed pensions reforms.
“Virtually every employee in David MacBrayne Ltd and Caledonian Asset Management Ltd (CMAL) will be potentially affected we would urge the RMT to meet with us to discuss the proposals affecting their members.”
"We will be speaking to them again early next week to try to find a way in which we can work together in the best interests of all of our employees."
The shipping operator said it had to make its “safeguard the pension fund by ensuring it is affordable and sustainable for years to come, while also offering value to the Scottish taxpayer.”
It hoped to resolve the issues in a “consensual and common-
No-
Earlier this week the RMT condemned Cal Mac’s reforms insisting the ferry operator failed to provide satisfactory reassurances over job security as well as conditions of service and pensions.
The RMT said a proposed rise in pension contributions will drastically cut crew members’ take home pay.
Staff risk having to work up to an extra three years for a reduced pension, said the RMT.
RMT boss Mick Cash told seafarers: “A strong mandate in favour of taking industrial action will send a clear message to Cal Mac that you are prepared to fight to win the assurances outlined and will not allow these attacks on your jobs and pensions.”
Dominating the scene is the prospect of a private shipping company taking over the west coast ferry routes under a £1 billion eight year contract.
Serco -
The ships will still be owned by the Scottish Government and leased to the winning bidder from next year.