Without a breakthrough, the Unite trade union say the action could escalate to an “all-out strike”
There has been a warning of milk shortages ahead of a strike by workers at several Dale Farm sites in Northern Ireland.
The strike action was announced by the Unite trade union on Monday, after drivers and engineers voted “overwhelmingly” for industrial action over pay.
Without a breakthrough in talks, the strike action is set to begin on August 20 with specific days set out by the union but could escalate to an “all-out” strike if there’s still no resolution.
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In a statement, a Unite spokesperson said: “Engineers and drivers at multiple Dale Farm production sites will participate in the initial three day strike action. A further three day strike is scheduled for the following week escalating to a five day strike the week after. In the absence of a resolution, all-out strike action will commence from the fourth week.
“Drivers and engineers voted in a formal ballot with majorities of 90 and 89 per cent respectively for strike action in support of their pay claim. Pay for Dale Farm workers is lower than it is for industry comparators in Northern Ireland.”
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Dale Farm engineers and drivers are determined to win a needed pay increase. Dale Farm is a highly successful enterprise and can afford to pay their skilled workforce properly. The workers can count on the full support of Unite for as long as it takes to win fair pay and respect.”
Unite regional officer for the workforce Simon Hall said: “Dale Farm workers at multiple sites will participate in the strike. Given the involvement of so many drivers and engineers, this industrial action will very likely affect both milk collection and production. Management knows what is needed to avoid this outcome: they need to provide an increase meeting our members’ legitimate pay expectations.”
A spokesperson for Dale Farm said: “We value all our staff and take pride in our employee relations. We believe we have made a very fair offer to this small group of our workforce, and we urge them, and Unite, to reconsider their decision.
“Our farmers can be assured that we have contingency plans in place, and their milk will be collected, as normal, during this period. We also want to assure our customers and our consumers that there will be no interruption to the supply of any of our products.
“We remain open to discussions with our team and Unite, in the hope of reaching a resolution.”
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