A potential fuel crisis was averted in the North West and Scottish Borders as tanker drivers accepted a new pay offer.
- Tanker drivers at the Stanlow oil refinery postponed strike actions following successful negotiations led by Unite.
- The new pay arrangement includes both immediate and future salary increases, along with backdated adjustments.
- Without the deal, planned strikes threatened to disrupt forecourt and aviation fuel supplies extensively.
- Union leaders have highlighted the collective strength and determination of the drivers that led to this outcome.
The threat of widespread fuel shortages in the North West and Scottish Borders has been significantly mitigated following a decisive intervention by Unite, which successfully negotiated an improved pay deal for tanker drivers. These drivers, who are based at the Stanlow oil refinery, had previously planned to initiate strike action, an event that was set to impact fuel supplies to garage forecourts and aviation sectors.
Unite’s negotiation strategies culminated in the acceptance of a revised offer, forestalling the anticipated industrial action. The new pay scheme provides an immediate increase of £2.02 per hour, accompanied by a £1 per hour fuel efficiency payment, both backdated to May 2023. Furthermore, salary adjustments include a rise of £1.99 per hour slated for February 2024, underpinning a tangible commitment to improving workers’ compensation over the next year.
Prior to reaching this agreement, workers were poised to vacate their posts at the Ellesmere Port site, with the strike scheduled to take place over two separate periods. The initial dates spanned from Thursday to Saturday, with an additional walkout planned from 13 to 15 June, potentially creating severe disruptions in the region’s fuel distribution networks.
During the negotiation process, Oxalis Logistics, the employer, initially resisted offering terms beyond a 19% pay rise over two years, citing operational viability and job security risks. However, the eventual enhancements in pay packages were instrumental in persuading the workforce to call off their protest.
The determination and unity of the tanker drivers have been praised by Unite. Sharon Graham, Unite’s general secretary, commended the workers for their solidarity and success in achieving improved pay conditions, stating that such efforts exemplify the impact of union-led initiatives. Unite’s regional officer, Paul Lomax, also reinforced the message of solidarity, encouraging workers in similar situations to consider the benefits of union membership.
The resolution of this pay dispute underscores the efficacy of collective bargaining in addressing workers’ rights and improving employment conditions.
