Exxon Fawley refinery workers in pay win

Strikes at the Exxon Fawley oil refinery near Southampton have ended after Unite secured a deal for around 100 workers.

The workers, employed by Trant Engineering Limited, Veolia Services and Altrad Services, began strike action in April over a 2.5 per cent pay offer. Unite’s members rejected this as a pay cut at a time when real inflation (RPI) was running at 9 per cent.

Following strike action, the workers accepted an offer to raise hourly rates and overtime premiums that will see annual wages increase by 9.2 per cent. A new working group on sick pay has also been set up.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said, “Congratulations to Unite’s members at Fawley. The members stood strong during this dispute – their solidarity secured them this improved pay deal.

“Once again Unite’s total commitment to improving jobs, pay and conditions has paid dividends for our members.”

Fawley is the UK’s largest refinery, supplying a sixth of petrol stations and all airports.

Unite’s Veolia members carry out safety critical work such as the removal of sewage and hydrocarbons and emergency works.

Other members are involved in providing aircraft fuel to airports as well as petrol and diesel for garage forecourts.

Unite regional officer Malcolm Bonnett added, “This pay victory shows why workers looking to better their wages and working conditions should join Unite and organise their colleagues to do the same.”

By Ryan Fletcher