Offshore oil workers employed by Apache in the North Sea have voted in favour of strike action amid a pay dispute, raising concerns over possible disruptions to UK fuel supplies. More than 160 workers associated with Apache’s Forties and Beryl oil fields have backed the planned strike. Unite, the union representing the workers, has warned that the action could commence this month and may cause severe disruption to fuel availability within the UK.
The dispute centres around what Unite has described as an unacceptable pay offer. The union criticised Apache for making large profits while offering terms the workers say do not adequately reflect their contributions. Additionally, Union officials have expressed concerns over deadlines for negotiating back pay, with Apache indicating that some payments might be withheld, potentially leaving workers out of pocket by thousands of pounds.
In response, Apache stated that it has engaged constructively during pay talks and proposed a 4% pay increase. The company highlighted that its workforce already ranks among the highest paid in the UK offshore sector and noted their work pattern averages 153 days offshore annually. Apache also noted that this offer aligns with the increases granted to its non-unionised employees earlier in the year.
The issue comes at a time when average UK diesel prices have surpassed £2 per litre for the first time, according to the RAC. Energy bills have also risen following an increase in the price cap from October 1. Unite general secretary Sharon Graham stressed the union’s firm stance on rejecting unacceptable pay proposals. Unite industrial officer Stevie Davies warned that any strike action disrupting Apache’s platforms could directly impact the Forties pipeline, which plays a significant role in the UK’s fuel supply.