CalMac praised for fast action to recruit ex-P&O employees

CalMac has been commended for its fast action to highlight vacancies on its network to those who have been made redundant by P&O Ferries.

Last week P&O Ferries sacked 800 staff with immediate effect and replaced them with agency staff who will be paid at rates well below the minimum wage.

Na h-Eileanan an Iar SNP MP Angus MacNeil said: ‘Some positions have already been offered to fill vacancies on the CalMac network, and they are participating in a crew redeployment scheme which gives access to applications from ex-P&O crew as vacancies arise.

‘Ultimately, however, this is not the solution. The required solution is that P&O changes this terrible policy that throws people out of their jobs.’

Mr MacNeil echoed comments from the First Minister that ‘fire and re-hire’ is ‘an appalling practice and offends the basic principle of fair work’.