RMT slams Stena on Coronavirus sick pay

Mick Cash, RMT General Secretary said:

"With no attempt to discuss this with trade unions, Stena Line has launched an outrageous attack on seafarers' right to a decent sick pay scheme which will mean Stena Line employees in the UK will only be entitled to the statutory minimum of £94.25 per week, even if they are diagnosed with Coronavirus.

"Rather than wait for a response from trade unions and industry's call for direct financial support from the government to pay salaries and meet additional costs incurred by the coronavirus, including sick pay, Stena are extending the aggressive approach taken in Scandinavia to the UK.

"We are seeking urgent talks with the company and the Government to find a more constructive approach than this which threatens to throw our seafarers on the scrap heap."