Strike Averted: UK Energy Construction Workers Secure 17% Pay Raise

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Skilled construction workers celebrate victory as GMB Union negotiates a significant pay increase.

In a major breakthrough for thousands of skilled construction workers across the UK, a potentially crippling strike set to impact energy sites nationwide has been called off after workers overwhelmingly accepted a generous pay offer. 

The GMB Union, representing the interests of these dedicated workers, announced the successful resolution on January 19, 2024, putting an end to weeks of tension and uncertainty.

Over 3,000 workers stationed at vital energy facilities, including Stanlow, Fawley, Valero, Grangemouth, Mossmorran Oil Refineries, and the Sellafield Nuclear Facility, had previously voted in favour of industrial action as they sought to secure better compensation for their hard work.

However, today’s historic announcement has seen these workers embrace a pay deal representing a significant win for their cause. The new agreement, which spans two years, delivers an impressive pay increase of more than 17 per cent.

Under the National Agreement for the Engineering Construction Industry (NAECI) terms, the workforce will enjoy an immediate boost to their income, with an extra 11.3 per cent increase slated for 2024. This will be followed by an additional 5.5 per cent increase in 2025. Furthermore, the deal incorporates improvements in sick pay and other allowances, adding substantial financial security for these dedicated workers.

Charlotte Brumpton-Childs, GMB National Officer, expressed her satisfaction with the outcome, “These skilled workers have fought valiantly for the pay rise they so richly deserve. In the face of mounting inflation and the erosion of their wages, they united in solidarity and successfully secured this truly remarkable deal. They should take great pride in their unwavering commitment to their cause.”

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