Southampton dockworkers mounted a noisy protest outside the offices of Svitzer on Wednesday 23 September in support of Richard Crease, a local tug-boat worker and elected Unite rep, national chair of Unite’s Docks, Rail, Ferries and Waterways National Industrial Sector Committee. The protest was to oppose attempts to cut Richard’s facility time. He was attending an appeal hearing at the Svitzer offices.
Svitzer is clearly preparing to attack the terms and conditions of the workforce by attempting to neuter the strength of the trade union. Unite has already conducted an indicative strike ballot as the first step in the course of action to defend its elected rep. Unite officers made clear the impact that would have in shutting all ports across the country.
The protest was supported by Southampton TUC, and Unite dockworkers are invited to its October meeting to discuss building solidarity.
Nick Chaffey, Southampton Socialist Party
