Workers at the Sullom Voe oil terminal in Shetland, Scotland, have voted to escalate strike action in a dispute over pay. The workers, employed by services company Altrad, previously went on strike on 1 December after rejecting a pay offer consisting of two one-off payments instead of a permanent wage increase.

Union Position and Escalation

The trade union Unite has announced further strike dates for 12 and 26 January. Union officials argue that Altrad can afford to pay workers fairly and that the one-off payments do not raise their standard of living. They warn that the strikes will cause significant operational disruption at the key terminal and place the blame for this solely on Altrad.

Company Stance

Altrad attributes its refusal to offer a consolidated pay increase to cost pressures from the terminal operator, EnQuest. EnQuest has been contacted for comment on the situation.