Port strike suspended after breakthrough in negotiations (From Western Telegraph)

Late night negotiations between Unite, ACAS and Milford Haven Port Authority mean port strike is suspended

11:07am Tuesday 23rd February 2010 in County News

After a breakthrough in negotiations, a deal is on the verge of being struck between Milford Haven Port Authority (MHPA) and Unite trade union.

Talks between both sides and ACAS continued into late last night (Monday) and concluded with an agreement to cancel industrial action by pilots and launch crew, scheduled for today (Tuesday), in order to allow negotiations to continue.

Unite regional officer Allan Card said he was optimistic they were on the verge of a deal.

"We have said all along that we believe this action did not need to go ahead," he said.

"We have suspended our action, as we have offered to do before, to consult with our members."

An extension to the ballot deadline was agreed from today for a 28-day period, before the resumption of any strike action. The port is currently continuing normal operations, including pilotage services.

MHPA said there had been a "breakthrough in negotiations" following several offers tabled by the authority.

An authority spokesman said: "MHPA management will report details of the negotiations to the authority's board, including their continued wish to move to binding arbitration. "It is hoped that the dispute can be fully resolved during this suspension period, and a mutual agreement reached.

"As Unite will be consulting with their members regarding the detail of MHPA's offers, it would be inappropriate to disclose further information at this time."

Mr Card said: "Through hard work around the negotiation table we are very optimistic a deal can be agreed and I will be strongly recommending the offer on the table to members."

Mr Card will meet with members tomorrow night (Wednesday) to discuss the latest offer from MHPA.