26 September 2025
RMT Press Office:
Maritime union RMT, is balloting members at cross-Solent ferry operator Wightlink after the company tabled “efficiency” plans that threaten 160 jobs and undermine safety on board.
The company wants to cut Deck Officer and Port Operator grades, close overnight onboard retail, and reduce crewing levels across vessels.
RMT says these plans will strip out safety-critical roles, downgrade services, and pile pressure on loyal staff who have kept ferries running.
Although management has now offered limited reassurances, the union says the scattergun nature of the changes still represents a serious attack on jobs and conditions.
Ballot papers will be issued from Wednesday 1 October, with the vote closing on Tuesday 14 October.
Members will be asked to back strike action and action short of strike.
RMT General Secretary Eddie Dempsey said: “Cutting safety-critical roles and crewing ferries at bare minimum levels in one of the busiest stretches of water is a terrible idea for passengers and for RMT members alike.
“Wightlink workers have given years of service keeping the Solent moving and deserve better than threats to their jobs and conditions.
“Unless Wightlink management withdraws these proposals and gives guarantees to maintain the highest standards of safety and decent secure jobs, we will take action to defend our members and the communities they serve.”
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