Sellafield construction workers in action vote

MORE than 1,000 constrction workers at the Sellafield nuclear site in Cumbria have voted to take industrial action in a row over health and safety, the Unite trade union has said.

The row, which began 10 months ago,  concerns their sub-contractor employer’s refusal to allow a full-time union shop steward. Workers will decide what type of industrial action they will take, at a meeting next week.

Unite said the dispute involves members employed at Sellafield Contractor Group Ltd.

It in a statement said: “The presence of a union representative, including safety representation is essential at the Sellafield nuclear site in Cumbria – to work together with the workforce and the company – keeping employees, the public and the site safe and secure.

“Over 1,200 Unite members voted 98 per cent in support of industrial action. Workers will decide what type of industrial action they will take at a meeting on Tuesday 21 April.”

Unite regional officer Steve Benson said: “Our members have lost patience with Sellafield management who have steadfastly continued to ignore our very reasonable request.

“All they are asking for is their rights for a co-worker to become a union shop steward at the Sellafield site to represent construction workers and keep them safe. It makes sense for our members and the company and it will help improve industrial relations and a safety and welfare culture at the site.

Sellafield Ltd told the BBC  it was “not directly involved” in the dispute. A spokesman said the discussions did not involve any of the company’s employees.

“We hope all parties can reach agreement. Safety and security at the site will be unaffected by any resulting industrial action,” he said.