Oil workers employed by Apache in the North Sea are preparing for potential strike action following failed negotiations over compensation, according to an announcement by the Unite union. The union stated that workers had overwhelmingly voted in favor of industrial action after the company presented a pay proposal that union representatives characterized as inadequate, resulting in real-terms pay decreases for many staff members. Additionally, the union raised concerns about Apache setting deadlines for resolving back pay disputes and potentially withholding payments, which could leave employees financially disadvantaged.
Apache countered that it had negotiated in good faith and noted it was offering a 4% salary increase to workers whose compensation already ranks among the highest in the UK, with offshore schedules averaging 153 working days annually. Strike activity could commence later this month and encompass more than 160 offshore workers, including electricians, technicians, and communications specialists. Such action would target the Forties and Beryl oilfields, with the potential to halt operations at a critical North Sea platform designated Charlie.
The union warned that disruption could ultimately affect the entire Forties pipeline system, which reportedly manages nearly one-third of the UK’s oil and gas supply. The potential impact comes as British consumers already face elevated fuel and gas prices stemming from broader geopolitical tensions. Officials noted that diesel prices had recently reached £2 per litre, and governments were responding by releasing emergency stockpiles of fuel reserves.
Apache stated it has contingency plans to maintain operational safety during any industrial action and does not anticipate disruptions affecting other operators using the Forties pipeline system. The company indicated that experienced personnel would remain at key locations and that any pressure reductions would be comparable to routine maintenance activities. A government spokesperson urged all parties to resolve the matter without causing supply interruptions, while noting the fuel supply system is resilient and diversified.
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