Sellafield construction workers strike over union post

A work-to-rule and overtime ban is already in force by the construction workers

Construction staff at the Sellafield nuclear plant in Cumbria have taken part in strike action.

Members of the Unite union voted to take action after a refusal by their sub-contractor employers to allow a full-time union shop steward.

The union said the post would improve industrial relations and help address health and safety concerns.

Sellafield Ltd said the dispute was "a matter for our contracting companies and their workforces to resolve".

The action, between 05:30 and 08:00 BST, followed a work-to-rule and overtime ban.

Unite regional secretary Mick Whitley said: "Sellafield is an important nuclear facility where health and safety and the welfare of workers should be paramount.

"Our experience shows that a full-time union convenor would help ensure a healthier, more productive and profitable workplace."

Sellafield said in a statement: "This is a dispute about the welfare of workers in the contractor community and not about the safety of the Sellafield site.

"During any industrial action, our overriding priority is the safety and security of the site and measures are in place to ensure this is maintained during this action."