Royal Fleet Auxiliary Mariners Strike Over Pay Dispute

Seafarers in the Royal Fleet Auxiliary began strike action on Tuesday 7 April. They walked out after overwhelmingly rejecting the employer’s latest pay offer.

The maritime union RMT confirmed members took industrial action on that date. The union has scheduled a further day of action for Thursday 16 April.

Reasons for the action

The dispute centers on pay transparency and calculation. Members report routinely working up to 12 hours a day without a clear pay formula for those hours.

RMT leaders say management proposals fell short of members’ expectations. The union says it made sustained efforts to negotiate a settlement.

Operational impact and safety measures

The Royal Fleet Auxiliary provides logistical and operational support to the Royal Navy. Ships and crews are integral to naval supply and sustainment tasks.

During the strike, the union says members will continue safety duties. Those duties include managing moorings and maintaining gangways.

Union position and demands

RMT general secretary Eddie Dempsey praised members for taking a principled stand. He warned the union will consider further strike action if necessary to secure a fair pay rise.

Dempsey stressed the work is demanding and sometimes dangerous. He urged the Ministry of Defence and the employer to deliver a long-term pay and conditions package.

The union also called for assurance that pay arrangements comply with National Minimum Wage rules. It said better transparency is essential to retain staff.

Coverage and next steps

The situation has been described as Royal Fleet Auxiliary Mariners Strike Over Pay Dispute in wider coverage. The Ministry of Defence has not issued a public response so far.

Filmogaz.com will monitor developments and provide updates as negotiations or further actions occur. More information will follow when available.