VT1&2 Terminal, Belfast - Stena Line

11^th April 2024

 

Dear Colleagues

 

VT1&2 Terminal, Belfast - Stena Line

 

Please see a communication below from Darren Procter, RMT National Secretary: 

 

“I am writing to update you and clarify your unions position on several points of concern.  Over the past couple of years, we have enjoyed a good working relationship with management in VT1&2 terminal in Belfast. Latterly, local management approached us to discuss the introduction of new roster patterns and it was discussed at a meeting on 30^th January that we should seek a representative from each shift to discuss this matter and set up meetings to discuss the initial proposal which was and still is a discussion document. 

 

Following our meetings, on 14^th February, notice of the commencement of a 30-day consultation and a proposal/discussion document was sent out to all PSOs in VT1&2.  On 28^thFebruary we were made aware of communications and discussions seeking “employee representatives” to participate in these discussions, some of whom are non-union members and I would go as far as to say as anti RMT employees. It was noticeable that the letter only asked for representatives from B&C gangs, making it clear management had already selected someone from A gang, which concerned us for obvious reasons as this a matter for your union to decide and not management. I initially raised my concerns regarding communication and the choice of wording around “employee representatives” with management involved in the discussions and subsequently I escalated this as it became apparent that this tactic was used by management in VT1&2 in 2019.  This is clearly an effort by some to undermine the positive working relationship between both organisations and effective representation within your workplace.

 

There also appears to have been communication taking place with individuals in the port, and as such I am in receipt of an email from one of your colleagues stating your representative does not represent him or others on that list (that included non-union members) and was copied into management. I have raised my concern and alarm as to why management are even aware of never mind being copied into internal representation emails and I must question what the agenda is of those individuals and the way in which it has been done. I am also fully aware of private correspondence from within our membership being shared with management, which for obvious reasons concerns me. It has also been confirmed by management that certain individuals have been discussing matters with them without mine or Alec Thompson’s knowledge. This should be concerning to you, the members of RMT. 

 

In addition to the above, I am led to believe that individuals are stating that Alec Thompson is withholding information from members, we have not had a meeting and have not been provided with information other than what has been circulated to all PSO’s within VT1&2 since our meeting on 30^th January. I feel it’s important to identify the above and to combat any negativity towards your representative and/or your union based on views and factually incorrect opinions of those with an agenda to weaken the collective strength of you and your colleagues. 

 

I will also make it abundantly clear that those individuals who have made a conscious choice not to be a member of the RMT and stand shoulder to shoulder with colleagues in the workplace and form part of a collective voice will have no influence or no input to any matter in which your employer is consulting or negotiating with the recognised union within your workplace. Your workplace representative has demonstrated his ability to represent your interests in a professional and dignified manner for over 10 years, tirelessly representing individuals in grievances and disciplinaries whilst articulating your concerns in local and national meetings and is respected not only in VT1&2 but nationally by Stena Line representatives in the ports and onboard the vessels. 

 

I will be seeking a meeting with the company to discuss the roster patterns as I have not been approached nor chased for a meeting to discuss the document that you are in receipt of, nor has Alec Thompson.  We have not been made aware formally of any direct input to your employer from RMT members but would appreciate you doing so in preparation for a meeting.

 

While it is usual practice that the company seeks the availability of myself or the respective officer to attend meetings and it is co-ordinated by Stena Line, I will on this occasion be requesting a meeting and when we know this is taking place either me or your representative Alec Thompson will communicate with you those details.

 

I trust that this update is informative.

 

Best Regards

Darren Procter

National Secretary”

 

Yours sincerely

 

Michael Lynch

General Secretary