Strike action at the Drax power station in Yorkshire has ended after workers secured a dramatically improved pay offer.

Strike action

Over 180 members of Unite, the UK’s leading union, took a day’s strike action on Monday 20 February after rejecting an eight per cent pay increase which was a substantial real terms pay cut.

Following the initial industrial action, fresh negotiations were held and Drax, which is highly profitable, made an improved pay offer. The new offer over a nine month period with back pay equates to an increase of 16 per cent for the lowest paid workers. Following a ballot of members the new offer was accepted.

Excellent increase

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “This was an excellent increase for Unite members at Drax, who by showing unity and standing up to their employer secured a vastly improved pay increase.

“The pay increase at Drax demonstrates how Unite’s absolute commitment to focus on jobs, pay and conditions is delivering for members.”

Hard work 

Unite regional officer Shane Sweeting said: “Special credit must go to the Unite reps at Drax, without their hard work and commitment this pay victory would not have been possible.”

The pay deal covers the workers only based in Yorkshire,  the Drax Hydro dispute is separate.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

UK could face electricity power cuts as Drax power station workers announce strikes

For media enquiries ONLY please contact Unite senior communications officer Barckley Sumner on 07802 329235 or 0203 371 2067.

Email: barckley.sumner@unitetheunion.org

Unite is the UK and Ireland’s leading union fighting to protect and advance jobs, pay and conditions for members working across all sectors of the economy. The general secretary is Sharon Graham.