Positive step forward

After last year’s dispute at Grangemouth, in which oil refinery operations at the Scotland plant almost ground to a halt, Unite and chemicals company Ineos have struck a new deal that represents a major step forward.

 
In the new agreement, Unite will have direct access to recruit new starters who begin working at the refinery after January 1.
Ineos has also agreed to reintroduce the check off system at the complex, in which workers can have their Unite subscription fees deducted directly from their monthly pay packets.

 
Commenting on the agreement, Unite regional secretary for Scotland Pat Rafferty called it a “positive step forward.”

 
“We remain extremely concerned about the exodus of experienced workers from Grangemouth and the impact this has on health and safety but expect that this step will lead to much more constructive discussions on site,” he said.

 
National lead negotiator for Ineos Jim Mowatt asserted that the workforce now has a strongly established trade union which can protect workers’ interests at the complex, especially as health and safety issues arise, which, he says, is instrumental to the future success of Grangemouth.

 
“This agreement ensures that the workforce continues to have an independent voice and once again gives new starters the opportunity to access the benefits, facilities and protections which Unite provides from day one,” Mowatt added.