Sellafield workers vote to strike

Mitie workers at Sellafield have voted to strike in anger at a 'derisory' pay offer.

GMB members overwhelmingly rejected the 3.5 per cent deal offered by the company.

The around 200 frontline workers are responsible for cleaning, security, landscaping, waste management, postal services, and laundry support the safety and functionality of one of Europe's most hazardous nuclear facilities.

Despite their vital role, the offer would leave many workers earning little more that £13 an hour.

Last year Mitie reported operating profits of £166 million, up 42 per cent from the previous year, £5.09 billion in revenue and CEO pay of £14.7 million - 575 times the average worker's salary.

A two-week strike is now set to begin on 1 August affecting operations at Sellafield and associated sites.

Fran Robson, GMB Regional Organiser, added:

"Without these workers, Sellafield cannot operate safely or securely.

"If Mitie refuses to return to the negotiation table with a meaningful offer, strike action will go ahead, risking significant disruption to this critical nuclear site.

"We call on Mitie to provide a pay rise that genuinely recognises the essential contribution of these workers."