An industrial dispute which had threatened to disrupt ferry traffic at a key cross-channel hub has been averted.Earlier this month Lloyd’s Loading List.comreported that Quay Assistants at Portsmouth International Port had voted to go on strike over new contracts, but they have now accepted an offer from management at the port, which is owned by Portsmouth City Council.
The new agreement will see all staff moved onto superior ‘old’ contracts and all overtime after midnight will be worked on a voluntary basis.
In a joint statement, Portsmouth City Council and Unite, which represents the quay assistants, said:
"Earlier last week negotiations between Unite the union and Portsmouth International Port resumed and a new proposal was offered to quay assistants. A consultative ballot has taken place amongst Unite members and the quay assistants have unanimously voted in favour of accepting the new proposal.
“This result has resolved the current difficulties and both sides look forward to working constructively in the future."
Unite regional officer, Ian Woodland said: “This demonstrates the importance of collective action. We had a 100% turn-out on the vote for industrial action and this strong action made management reconsider its position.”
The port’s 18 quay assistants are responsible for tying up and releasing cross-channel ferries.
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