Dozens of tug and towage workers at Sullom Voe Terminal, Shetland are set to take strike action.

The workers who are members of the Unite Trade union have voted by 87.1% to take the strike action in a dispute over being denied a ‘service award’ after their transfer to Shetland Islands Council (SIC) in 2006. 

Industrial action is planned for the middle of May, which could result in a significant shock to oil processing and supplies. 

The tug and towage workers have been told by SIC that they will not receive the long service award for 25 years’ service, which is the equivalent of one month’s salary like other council workers but instead a flat rate of £250. 

John Boland, Unite industrial officer, said: 

“Unite members have overwhelmingly voted to take strike action to rectify the injustice being done to them.

“Our members in the Shetland Islands Council towage service just want to be treated fairly and the same as any other council employee, and that means they be given the long service award for the same dedication to their jobs.

“We will now prepare to serve strike action notice, but hope that Shetland Island Council will come to their senses and resolve this dispute.”