16 August 2025
RMT Press Office:
Maritime union RMT, will begin industrial action on Orkney Ferries later this month, in a dispute over pay and conditions.
From Thursday 28 August, RMT members will take action short of a strike by refusing to work any overtime until further notice.
The move comes after the company failed to enter into meaningful negotiations with the union over the 2025 pay settlement.
RMT is the largest trade union representing workers at Orkney Ferries and has consistently raised concerns about pay, working conditions and management’s lack of engagement.
RMT General Secretary Eddie Dempsey said: “Our members on Orkney Ferries provide a lifeline service to island communities and deserve fair pay and conditions in return.
"The company has so far refused to engage seriously with the union, leaving our members with no option but to take industrial action.
"This dispute is entirely avoidable but will cause disruption to the service as staffing levels are already inadequate.
"Management must now do the right thing and enter into meaningful talks with RMT so that a fair negotiated settlement can be reached.”
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