Negotiations have commenced on next year’s pay deal

Unite has concluded a third workforce recognition agreement with Seagate. The Derry/L’Derry based manufacturer is a global leader in mass data storage and employs approximately 1,400 workers in Northern Ireland.

The latest recognition deal covers the assistant’ group of the workforce – approximately 21 workers mostly in administration roles. In the last two years Unite has secured recognition deals covering manufacturing specialists and engineering specialists. The three recognition deals means that Unite has negotiation rights for almost all categories of non-management employees in the company. More than 700 workers are members of the union already and the numbers continue to expand.

General secretary Sharon Graham said, “This recognition deal completes the goal of fully organising Seagate. This is a cutting-edge manufacturer, and this outcome demonstrates the importance of trade union membership to workers across all sectors in the economy.

“Building strength in the workplace is the key to deliver for members’ jobs, terms and conditions.”

Unite has already commenced negotiations on pay and conditions at the plant for the current year and these will now be expanded to include staff in the ‘assistants group’.

Unite regional officer Brenda Stevenson said, “The Seagate organising campaign has been a huge win for our union. Seagate is one of this region’s most important employers and it is vital workers know that they have Unite in their corner.

“The hard work now starts to negotiate a pay deal for workers reflecting their commitment and dedication and their contribution to the wider success of this business.”

ENDS…

For further information contact Donal O'Cofaigh, Unite campaigns, communications & press (NI), tel. 07810 157926.