P&O Ferries has told staff it is proposing to change its management structure, which is expected to result in the loss of around 60 jobs in the UK – with another 60 being restructured into existing or similar roles. The proposals do not affect operational staff below leadership level in any of the company’s UK, Ireland or European ports – or any staff aboard vessels.
A P&O Ferries spokesperson said: “We are consulting with our colleagues and trade unions about proposed changes to our management structure. Our proposals aim to put us on a competitive, sustainable footing, and deliver for our customers by offering the best-in-class service on the vital UK tourist and trade routes that we serve.
“These proposals do not affect our operational colleagues below leadership level in any of our UK, Ireland or European ports or any colleagues aboard our vessels. We are focused on investing heavily to meet the long-term needs of our customers who want value for money, greener journeys and flexibility.
“We have already improved our service, boosted our competitiveness, and are generating growth while significantly reducing our carbon emissions. Our level of investment in new technology and capacity is unprecedented in the UK passenger and freight maritime industry, and demonstrates our long-term commitment to supporting the growth of the UK economy.”
The company came under fire last year when it sacked hundreds of workers.
Frank Macklin, regional organiser of the GMB union, said: “This is another shameful day for P&O management. P&O should be preparing for a new dawn and era as it welcomes its newest vessel into service.
“GMB members have put in the hard yards ensuring P&O continues to operate despite the best efforts of its senior management team who lead the company from one crisis to another. This is how they are thanked. We are seeking urgent talks with management to discuss these proposals.
“GMB are committed to doing everything that we can to protect as many jobs as we can.”
Subscribe here for the latest news where you live
Mick Lynch, general secretary of the Rail, Maritime and Transport union, said: “This is another shameful chapter in the history of P&O Ferries where yet again they show scant regard for the livelihoods of their workforce. Another 60 job losses comes on the back of introducing new vessels to its fleet at a cost of over £200 million.
“Over the past 12 months this company has demonstrated no loyalty or commitment to its workforce or local economies in the ports in which they operate whilst jeopardising the safety of travelling passengers. The Government should immediately strip P&O Ferries and their parent company of any right to operate from UK ports.”
For more stories from where you live, visit InYourArea.
