Union members vote to accept deal and withdraw plans for strike at Fermanagh-based steel erector company

Unite the union members employed by Severfield, the UK’s largest specialist structural steel company, in Kesh, Co Fermanagh are celebrating the resolution of an ongoing pay dispute which was due to see strike action commence this week (Tuesday 31 October). 

The workers voted to accept a pay deal which in total will be worth up to 11.2 per cent over the year for most members, in addition workers will receive a one-off cost of living payment of £700. This brings to an end the industrial dispute and the planned industrial action.

The deal also includes a commitment to undertake a benchmarking exercise on the difference between pay at Fermanagh and with Severfield plant’s elsewhere within the UK. The pay agreement will also mean that all Unite members are automatically included in the bargaining unit for future pay negotiations – the next anniversary date being April 2024. 

The pay deal has been welcomed by Unite reps at the factory as it will enable the company to both recruit and retain staff.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “This outcome represents a tremendous win for our members secured directly through collective organisation and their readiness to take industrial action.

“This deal once again shows the ability of Unite to secure big improvements to the pay, terms and conditions for its members.”

Unite regional officer Brenda Stevenson said: “This is a big win for the Severfield workforce and for our growing union in Fermanagh. Unite will build on this success and will now further strengthen our union representation among the workforce.”