Unite the union calls for agreement as Red Funnel strikes continue into third week

Red Funnel workers were seen striking outside the terminal in Southampton today whilst pay discussions continue.

The company made a final offer of a 6.3 per cent pay rise for a number of roles and 4.5 per cent for others.

But staff are demanding a pay increase consistent with the rise of inflation which hit 10.1 per cent earlier this week.

Ian Woodland, Regional Officer for Unite the Union said: “The minimum wage is incredibly low in this country and the challenges we’re facing are really having an effect on our members’ income.

“We are looking for a pay award that is going to address the cost of living for our members and we are making approaches to the company, and we are talking but there hasn’t been a settlement yet.

"What we’ve got here is a group of workers who are waiting every year for a minimum wage increase to supplement their income."

With the spike in energy prices, workers are wondering whether they'll be able to afford their bills this winter, Mr Woodland said.

Workers on strike outside the ferry terminal on Friday. Picture: Ian Woodland

“We feel there is a general grievance as far as the staff is concerned over pay and so I hope Red Funnel comes to their senses so we can stop this," he added.

“As a union and employers, we need to be looking at the inflation rate and how this is affecting employees. We need to have an economy that works for our members and works for workers and that is not happening now.”

As discussions continue, planned strike action is expected to take place on August 23, 26 and 29.

Fran Collins, Red Funnel's chief executive said she was incredibly disappointed that Unite members have chosen to strike, despite the company's pay offers.

These include a 6.3 per cent increase for service assistants, customer advisors, store operatives, cabin attendants and signature lounge assistants and 4.5 per cent for every other role.

The company has apologised for the inconvenience the strikes will cause and has revised its timetable accordingly.

Customers are encouraged to check the live service status for the latest travel updates. 

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