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Ferry strike in Orkney disrupts island economies

Ferry Online Travel News 03/09/2007

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Strikes by ferry workers looking for more pay disrupt communities in Orkney and may get more serious.

A three day strike last week by workers on the Orkney Ferries caused extensive disruptions in travel plans. The strike is only the first in a series which is planned for the future.

The industrial action was carried out by approximately 30 workers who belong to the RMT Union. The union rejects the 3.5 per cent pay raise offered by the local ferry company and was in negotiations with the business until last Tuesday.

On Wednesday, ferries remained anchored at Kirkwell pier with neither side issuing statements or meeting to discuss the issue.

In order to help communities stranded without ferry access, freight planes are carrying some supplies to the areas affected. Members of the island community, however, have expressed their worry over the impact a more prolonged or repeated ferry strike could cause on their already fragile economy.

The first strike lasted until 23:59 on Friday. Further strikes are planned for weeks to come.

While the problem remains a relatively small one at present, members of other ferry unions are also dissatisfied with their pay scale and have rejected offers from ferry companies and discussing the possibility of industrial action themselves.

Orkney Ferries currently operates services between the Orkney mainland and satellite islands.

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