Nuclear facility Sellafield hit by double strike

Thousands of staff at the Sellafield nuclear facility in Cumbria have walked out today in two separate strikes.

The workers, including ancillary staff employed by Mitie, are taking part in the action, said the union GMB.

Some 3,000 members directly employed by Sellafield Ltd walked again for 24 hours from 6.01am today (November 29) until 5.59am tomorrow (November 30).

It is the third time they have taken industrial action amid a long running pay dispute dating back to July.

In a separate dispute, around 300 staff employed by Mitie, according to the union some of the lowest paid workers on site, will also strike for the same period.

Staff employed by Mitie – who undertake tasks such as industrial cleaning, catering, business services and security – have turned down a below inflation pay offer.

Members in both disputes will picket at the North Gate, Main Gate, Calder Gate, WAMAC Gate and Station Gate from the start of strike and throughout today at the site.

In addition, Sellafield Firefighters begin a separate 12 hour tomorrow (November 30).

Chris Jukes, GMB Senior Organiser, said: “Neither Sellafield nor Mitie members want to take industrial action – but they have been left with no choice by their respective managements.

“All our members want is a pay offer which at least keeps up with inflation – so they can afford to put food on their families’ tables as inflation and the cost of living go up and up.

“We urge Sellafield and Mitie to get round the table and negotiate a fair deal for everyone.”