Workers vote for action as Fairworkers go for “Fair pay for RFA”

Maritime union RMT confirmed today that there has been an overwhelming vote for industrial action involving nearly 700 workers at the Royal Fleet Auxiliary – the Royal Navy supply lifeline – in a fight for pay justice.

Despite repeated efforts by the union to reach a negotiated solution the employers have instead opted to impose a 1.5% increase, undermining the living standards of a crucial group of workers who have seen service in major trouble spots, including the Falklands and the Gulf, at huge personal risk.

RMT General Secretary Mick Cash says: “RMT members at Royal Navy’s supply lifeline – the RFA – have voted overwhelmingly for action.  The union executive will now consider the next steps.

“It is disgraceful that our Royal Fleet Auxiliary members, staff delivering the supplies life-line to the Royal Navy that is crucial to our national safety and security, have had a derisory pay increase imposed on them which doesn’t even keep pace with the cost of living. That amounts to a pay cut in real terms and is wholly unacceptable and that is why we are now moving to a formal industrial action ballot.

“RMT will not stand by while RFA staff are denied basic pay justice. The union will be stepping up the “Fair Pay for RFA” campaign which will give the public a chance to show their support for this essential group of workers.  We remain available for genuine and meaningful talks.”