NI could see milk shortages due to industrial action by dairy production staff, warns trade union
Northern Ireland could experience milk shortages as a result of industrial action at Dale Farm, a trade union has warned.
Unite the Union has confirmed strike action at the dairy producer will begin next Wednesday, August 20.
Engineers and drivers at multiple production sites will participate in an initial three-day walkout with a further three strike days scheduled for the following week.
A planned escalation to a five-day strike is in place for the week after that, with all-out strike action commencing from the fourth week if a resolution is not reached.
"Management knows what is needed to avoid this outcome' – Simon Hall (Unite)
The move follows a formal members' ballot which saw 90% of drivers and 89% of engineers voting in favour of the action as row over pay rumbles on.
The union said compensation for Dale Farm workers is lower than industry comparators in NI.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said, 'Dale Farm engineers and drivers are determined to win a needed pay increase. Dale Farm is a highly successful enterprise and can afford to pay their skilled workforce properly.
Read more Ballymena man appears in court accused of shooting ex-UVF boss in face with crossbow
"The workers can count on the full support of Unite for as long as it takes to win fair pay and respect.'
Unite General Secretary Sharon Graham
Unite regional officer for the workforce Simon Hall said 'Dale Farm workers at multiple sites will participate in the strike. Given the involvement of so many drivers and engineers, this industrial action will very likely affect both milk collection and production.
"Management knows what is needed to avoid this outcome: they need to provide an increase meeting our members' legitimate pay expectations.'
However a spokesperson for Dale Farm insisted there would be no interruption to milk supplies as a result of the strike action.
"We value all our staff and take pride in our employee relations. We believe we have made a very fair offer to this small group of our workforce, and we urge them, and Unite, to reconsider their decision,' they said.
"Our farmers can be assured that we have contingency plans in place, and their milk will be collected, as normal, during this period. We also want to assure our customers and our consumers that there will be no interruption to the supply of any of our products.
"We remain open to discussions with our team and Unite, in the hope of reaching a resolution.'
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