Unite to fight redundancies at Southampton dock

http://www.unitetheunion.com/news__events/latest_news/unite_to_fight_redundancies_at.aspx?lang=en-gb

Unite, the UK’s biggest union, has today (Thursday) been left reeling at the news that Dubai Ports World in Southampton is to implement its plans to make 41 compulsory redundancies as a result of the downturn in trade through the port.
Unite has presented the company with a series of proposals aimed at maintaining employment for all members at Dubai Ports World, however all have been rejected out of hand by the company.
Although trade in the UK port industry is suffering due to the downturn, Unite believes that Dubai Ports World is using the current economic downturn to force through redundancies and threaten further casualties in the industry.
Brendan Gold, Unite national secretary, said: “We will not allow an international port operator to make compulsory redundancies and ignore our stewards’ proposals. It makes the consultation process a total sham.
“I have asked to meet the company at a senior level to resolve this issue. Management should be under no illusion our members are very angry. They are prepared to do all that is necessary to protect their livelihoods and working conditions up to and including industrial action.”