Steam Packet disappointed as Nautilus proceed with ballot for industrial action

The Steam Packet Company say they are disappointed that the Nautilus Union will proceed with a ballot for industrial action.

They say they had made a generous offer to the officers represented by the Union, and this remains on the table.

Nautilus say they reached the decision to proceed with the ballot after Steam Packet threatened their members with the possibility of fire and rehire if they refused to accept what they branded fundamental changes to their terms and conditions.

If Steam Packet's 'live on board' proposals were accepted, Nautilus say the workers would stand to lose 76 days a year from their friends and families.

The Steam Packet has urged Nautilus to return to the table and negotiate a solution rather than threatening disruption of lifeline services that will affect the whole of the entire Isle of Man.