Unite announces Sellafield strike action as pay dispute rumbles on

The decision follows a ballot of the union’s members last month, in which 90 per cent voted for industrial action after rejecting Sellafield’s 1.5% pay increase.

Unite regional officer Graham Williams said: “This impending strike action follows on from Sellafield imposing on our members a pay rise well below the retail price index (RPI) rate of inflation, which is presently running at 3.9%.”

Members of the GMB union took strike action last month after they too rejected Sellafield’s pay increase.

Williams added: “Our members are highly skilled and trained professionals who are working in an extremely hazardous, arduous and security-vetted environment.

“They are carrying out important work in the national interest and it is imperative that the wage rates are maintained at a commensurate level to reflect their contribution to Sellafield’s continued success.”

In response, Sellafield said: “We believe that a no-strings-attached 1.5% pay increase is fair and reasonable, based on company affordability. The [Prospect] union, which represents the largest section of our workforce (more than 5,000), has accepted the same offer which GMB and Unite are taking action over.

 “Our focus is always on the safety and security of the site. We will put plans in place to ensure that is maintained throughout any strike action.”

A date for the Unite strike has not yet been announced.