Stena Line has ignored normal industrial processes by not notifying unions about the proposed axing of 80 jobs from its operations, a transport union representative has claimed.
It comes after the freight carrier announced on Monday that the potential redundancies – which include 30 consultants – stemmed from the recommendations of an internal review which found the company’s current set-up was “too big and expensive” in relation to its revenue.
The company employs hundreds of people in Northern Ireland among more than 6,000 overall employees, but it is not yet clear where the redundancies will be focused.
CEO Paul Grant announced the job losses in an email to all staff on Monday morning, a move that has angered union representatives in the Transport Salaried Staffs’ Association (TSSA).
The union wrote to bosses on Tuesday to express its disappointment in how the news was handled and requesting a meeting between the company and the union.
Within the letter, General Secretary, Maryam Eslamdoust, said the meeting should take place as a “matter of urgency”.
“We are hugely disappointed that this announcement was made in such a public way and without the knowledge of the TSSA beforehand,” she said.
“Our members are shocked by this news and outraged that Stena has chosen to ignore the normal industrial relations processes.
“Stena must meet with us urgently to clarify who is at risk of redundancy and ensure we understand any potential impact on our members.”
TSSA General Secretary Maryam Eslamdoust
In his letter to staff, Mr Grant said the move was part of a programme to “future proof the company”.
“Unfortunately, the rising external competition and increasing cost pressure, in combination with a significant future investment need, mean redundancies will be necessary,” said Mr Grant.
“The initiative to carry out a review of our current organisational set-up and look at how we can reduce our cost base, was launched a few months ago. It came as a result of the challenging times we are currently facing.
“Cost pressure due to higher inflation has led to our customers having less money to spend and with the introduction of the European Emission Trading Scheme (ETS), increasing our prices, we see a decline in volumes for both Travel and Freight. This has led to increased pressure on our net margin.
“Moreover, the market growth we planned for in 2024 has not turned out as expected and our travel and onboard sales business suffered during the summer season.”
Mr Grant added that consultation with unions was “due to begin”, estimating the process would take a number of months.
“Our ambition is that everyone in the organisation – affected or not – should know their situation no later than January 31 2025,” he added.
“We will do our outmost to take care of the colleagues that will have to leave the company, through external bodies providing career guidance and support.”
Stena Line has been approached for further comment.