Wage row threatens jobs at chilled fish company

JOBS may be cut at Grimsby chilled fish supplier Icelandic Seachill, owners of The Saucy Fish Co. brand as a row over national living wage moves forward.

The firm says it is in the process of consulting with staff, of which 400 are based at Laforey Road in Grimsby, about changes to the terms of weekly paid employees.

According to union Unite, Icelandic Seachill is being accused of paying for wage bill increases due to the introduction of the national living wage by cutting jobs, though it unclear how many at this stage.

Unite said it’s attempts to recoup money from the 46p an hour increase was an “outrageous slight of hand” and “robbing Peter to pay Paul.”

Unite regional officer Dave Monaghan said: “Without the enormous amount of overtime that our members put in this profitable company would not be able to generate tens of millions in sales a year.

“The ‘national living wage’ is meant to uplift incomes of those on low pay and not as a way for unscrupulous bosses to boost profits by playing fast-and-loose with the spirit behind the new ‘living wage’ rate.”

Representatives from Icelandic Seachill said: “The changes have been designed to ensure that we retain the best workers, secure the future of the site and continue to operate efficiently.

“We are offering staff a minimum hourly rate of £7.35 and after implementing the proposed changes to the overtime rates more than 85% of our staff will be better off.

“We have a very loyal, long serving workforce and ensuring that they are fairly rewarded, whilst continuing to provide a first class service to our customers is our priority. “

 

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