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Border agency strike to hit ferry ports

17 February 2010

People returning by ferry from half term breaks in France could be delayed on Saturday (20 Feb) as UK Border Agency (UKBA) staff working at juxtaposed controls in Calais, Dunkirk, Coquelles and Boulogne, take part in a second one-day strike over plans to slash allowances.

Over 470 PCS members are expected to be on strike, hitting immigration controls for ferry traffic heading to the UK. The stoppage is the second one-day strike over plans to scrap allowances for day and night shifts and cut the overnight allowance by a third, from 68 Euros to just 45 Euros.

The union estimates that the average staff member could lose over £500 a month in allowances which are given to UKBA staff who work on immigration controls and undertake freight searches in France on detached duty.

PCS had hoped to reach a negotiated settlement following the first one-day strike on 19 December which drew strong support and resulted in widespread disruption. However management’s continued refusal to seriously address staff concerns has left border officials feeling angry and betrayed.

Commenting, Mark Serwotka, PCS general secretary, said: "The people taking action are dedicated staff who do a difficult job working unsociable hours in another country. It is disgraceful that the average staff member stands to lose over £500 a month because of imposed changes by the UKBA.

"Management’s refusal to recognise staff concerns has done nothing for morale. With support for strike action running high, we would urge the UKBA to reconsider its plans and recognise the important role that UKBA staff play."
 

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