UK: Offshore workers accept improved pay deal

GMB, a UK-based offshore workers’ union has accepted an improved pay deal from the Offshore Contractors Association (OCA) after balloting members.

The revised pay offer was given the nod after 54% of members voted to accept, preventing a possible industrial action. The members had previously voted to strike after rejecting a previous offer from the OCA.

Ross Murdoch, GMB National Officer, said: “GMB welcomes the result – which means a better pay deal for members.

“However the narrow margin of the yes vote – along with a similar close ballot by our sister union Unite – should highlight to the offshore contractors that they still have a dissatisfied workforce.

“GMB members had voted in favour of industrial action on the previous OCA offer.

“Therefore, as we move towards the 2018/19 pay negotiations, GMB calls on the OCA and its signatory employers to recognise this, and come up with a meaningful offer that reflects a rising cost of living.”