Bryan HayTata steelworkers at Port Talbot and Newport Llanwern have voted to strike for the first time in over 40 years. The action is in response to the company’s proposed job cuts and closure of blast furnaces, which could affect 2,800 jobs.
Workers, represented by Unite, decided on industrial action after a ballot today, despite threats from Tata of losing enhanced redundancy pay. Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said, “This is an historic vote. Not since the 1980s have steelworkers voted to strike in this way.”
Unite has argued that alternatives exist, citing Labour’s promise of a £3bn investment in the steel industry, compared to the current government’s £500m.
The union also pointed out disparities in Tata’s international operations, noting that jobs and furnaces are being maintained in the Netherlands and Germany. Unite is now planning picketing actions to challenge the company’s UK shutdown plans.
Peter Hughes, Unite Wales regional secretary, supported the members’ decision, stating: “Our members have their union’s absolute support in striking to stop these cuts – Unite is backing them every step of the way.”
Dates for the planned strikes will be announced, aiming to maximise the action’s impact.
