Unite union representatives announced plans for strike action by North Sea oil workers employed by Texas-based Apache, citing failed pay negotiations and inadequate compensation offers. The union stated that affected workers had overwhelmingly supported the industrial action after rejecting what they characterized as an unacceptable pay proposal that would result in real-terms wage reductions despite the company’s substantial profitability.
The potential strike could commence later this month and involve approximately 160 Apache offshore workers across various roles, including electrical specialists, production technicians, and communications operators. The action would target the Forties and Beryl oilfields, with union officials warning that operations at the Charlie platform could come to a halt, potentially forcing the entire Forties pipeline system offline. This pipeline reportedly handles nearly one-third of the UK’s oil and gas supply.
Apache countered union claims by stating it had conducted pay discussions in good faith and offered a 4% wage increase. The company noted that its offshore workers already rank among the highest earners in the UK and work an average of 153 days annually. Apache also indicated it had implemented contingency plans and maintained confidence that operations could continue with experienced personnel remaining on key installations.
The dispute occurs amid existing pressure on UK fuel supplies, as consumers have faced rising diesel and petrol prices stemming from geopolitical tensions affecting international crude markets. Recent developments included diesel prices reaching record levels, alongside announcements that G7 nations would release emergency stockpiles of fuel and crude oil.
Government officials urged both parties to resolve the matter without causing disruption, though a department spokesperson noted the Forties pipeline transports crude oil rather than refined fuel. A similar Unite-organized strike by Neo Next workers was averted earlier this year following a negotiated settlement worth over £4,000 per worker.
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