Marine Scotland set to strike over pay
SEAFARERS nicknamed “Scotland’s navy” are to strike in a pay dispute with the Scottish Government.
Staff at Marine Scotland are angry they are being paid thousands less than those on other Scottish Government-run contracts.
The Unite union said a chief steward for Marine Scotland can earn up to £29,579 a year, while the same post at Caledonian MacBrayne gets £37,675. Both Marine Scotland, who manage Scottish waters, and Cal Mac are wholly owned by Scottish Ministers.
In December, Holyrood passed a Labour amendment stating that Marine Scotland staff should receive a fair pay settlement that recognises their experience and skills. Despite First Minister Nicola Sturgeon pledging to look into it, Unite say a previous decision to approve a £5000 pay supplement has been cut to £3000.
Regional industrial officer Sandy Smart said: “Industrial action is always a last resort and even at this late stage we hope that we can reach a solution. This requires movement by Marine Scotland and the Scottish Government to properly award the seafarers.”
Rhoda Grant MSP added: “Given the vote in Parliament, it is pretty sad that it has come to this.”
Marine Scotland operate Marine Protection Vessels and research ships to protect the seas and fisheries around the country. Five sets of two-day strikes will take place later this month.