CNOOC averts strike as UK North Sea workers back new pay package

In a significant development, Unite, the largest offshore trade union in the UK, has announced that its members employed by CNOOC on North Sea platforms have successfully negotiated a pay increase following the prospect of strike action. Approximately 130 workers voted overwhelmingly in favor of the new agreement, which includes a basic pay rise of 5.5% and additional improvements to allowances totaling 7%, resulting in a potential overall uplift of £8,000 (about $11,000) depending on the worker’s role.

Successful Negotiations Prevent Strike Action

The agreement comes after a series of rejected pay offers, including a 4.25% basic pay increase proposed in July, which was deemed insufficient by the workers. As a result, they were balloted on the possibility of industrial action, raising concerns that such measures could lead to the shutdown of CNOOC’s operations. Fortunately, a deal was reached before any disruptions occurred, allowing operations to continue smoothly on the Buzzard, Scott, and Golden Eagle platforms where the workers are employed.

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The workforce represented includes a variety of roles such as control room operators, electricians, technicians, and mechanics. Sharon Graham, the general secretary of Unite, highlighted the importance of the union’s efforts in achieving this significant wage increase. She remarked, “Unite has successfully delivered its latest wage win for offshore workers, this time for those employed by CNOOC. It’s a significant increase which only came about due to our members being prepared to take strike action to get a better deal.” This outcome underscores the critical role of collective bargaining in securing fair wages and working conditions for offshore workers in the North Sea.