Some of Serco’s marine workforce are looking to walk out for a day next month over concerns about replacing a £1.2 billion, 10-year contract with the Royal Navy that could lead to job cuts.
Serco tugs are essential support to Devonport and other UK dockyards, and union chiefs are worried that the existing contract that expires this year might see targeted savings and fewer Serco employees.
The company employs about 600 people and operates a variety of vessels with a modernisation program to replace older tugs.
Westward Shipping News recently spent a day with the crew on SD Eileen in Devonport Dockyard and saw for ourselves the important roles these professional seafarers play in supporting the Royal Navy and shipping movements in and out of the Sound.
In 2007, the Navy Services were privatised, and Serco was given a 15-year contract worth £1 billion, getting a 27-month extension worth £200 million in 2022.
The Ministry of Defence has stated that the strike by Prospect union members will not affect operational activities.
