Seafarers take strike action over pay

This is the fifth stoppage by seafarers who are in a dispute with the MOD over pay

Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) seafarers have taken strike action over pay.

RFA workers, who are part of the the National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT), have joined picket lines in Portland, Portsmouth and Birkenhead.

This is the fifth stoppage by the group who are in a long-running pay dispute with the Ministry of Defence (MOD).

The MOD said it is committed to listening to the RFA's concerns and "keeping a continued dialogue to address the issues they have raised”.

The industrial action has coincided with Merchant Navy Day

The industrial action by RFA personnel has taken place across the globe, including in Australia, and it has coincided with Merchant Navy Day, which honours merchant seafarers who gave their lives in conflicts.

The RFA provides vital logistical and operational support to the Royal Navy on everything from high-tempo combat and counter-piracy campaigns, to disaster relief and emergency evacuations.

Those on strike have been directed to abstain from duties while ensuring essential safety protocols, including maintaining moorings and gangways, are strictly observed.

RMT general secretary Mick Lynch said: "RFA seafarers perform a vital role of supporting a range of operations including our Navy and they should be paid properly for such important work.

"We will continue to campaign for a decent pay rise so we can reach a negotiated settlement."

Meanwhile, an MOD spokesperson said: “The Royal Fleet Auxiliary are highly valued, specialist personnel. We are committed to listening to their concerns and keeping a continued dialogue to address the issues they have raised.”