Drax responds to Union claims that strike could lead to power cuts
The Unite Union says the UK could face power cuts later this month, as workers employed at Drax Power Station, near Selby, take strike action in a dispute over pay.
Drax says this won’t be the case.
The 180-plus workers, who are members of Unite, have rejected an eight per cent pay increase.
They claim the offer is a substantial real terms pay cut with the current inflation rate.
They say the strike action will close Drax down.
A Drax spokesperson said: “In the event of industrial action, Drax has robust plans in place to ensure the power station continues to safely generate renewable electricity.
Unite has announced an initial nine days of strike action with strikes taking place on 20 and 27 February, then 6, 13, 20, 27 March and 4, 10 and 17 April.
The Union says “The workers are particularly incensed that the company is trying to force through a real terms pay cut at a time when it is making huge profits due to the increase in the cost of electricity.
“Drax is estimated to generate profits in excess of £680 million for 2022, an increase of well over 50 per cent on the previous year.”
A Drax spokesperson said that it has put forward a generous full and final pay settlement which rewards our valued colleagues with a significant pay rise worth 10% and a £2,000 lump sum.
“We are deeply disappointed that Unite is planning to go forward with this unnecessary action which will see colleagues lose money instead of securing a significant pay rise. Drax remains open to dialogue with Unite to avoid industrial action.
“There are three trade unions representing colleagues at Drax Power Station and this offer has been accepted by Prospect, while GMB has stated it will not be taking industrial action.”
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “This is a classic case of greed by a company which is already generating eye-watering profits. Drax is cynically seeking to boost its bonanza profits further by forcing workers to take a real terms pay cut.
“Unite is now totally focussed on the jobs, pay and conditions of its members and the workers at Drax will be receiving the union’s complete support.”