RFA Seafarers (RMT) Strike Calendar
Strike Type: Maritime
Latest RFA Seafarers Industrial Action Updates (4)
A maritime union plans to take strike action within the Royal Fleet Auxiliary after rejecting the most recent pay proposal.
The union stated that management's offers failed to meet the expectations of its members, despite attempts to reach an agreement.
The planned strike dates are Tuesday, April 7th, and Thursday, April 16th.
During the strike days, union members will maintain vessel safety, including managing moorings and gangways.
Concerns exist because seafarers often work up to 12 hours daily, yet there is no clear method for calculating pay based on these hours.
Members have indicated they will not accept inadequate pay offers and are ready to strike to achieve what they believe is warranted.
The workers provide essential support to the Navy under challenging working conditions and have experienced years of low pay and unresolved issues regarding their terms.
A commitment to improving pay and conditions, including compliance with the National Minimum Wage, is necessary for retaining staff.
Royal Fleet Auxiliary seafarers are scheduled to take strike action on March 5th and 6th due to a dispute concerning pay, transparency, and adherence to minimum wage legislation.
The industrial action will commence at 00:01 hours on Thursday, March 5th, 2026, and conclude at 23:59 hours on Friday, March 6th, 2026.
During the strike period, if a ship is in port, members are instructed to refrain from commencing any duty.
Workers engaging in the action will be responsible for ensuring the safety of the vessel, including moorings and gangways, remains secure at all times.
This action resulted from an industrial ballot where members voted overwhelmingly, by a ratio of nine to one, against the latest remuneration proposal and in favor of industrial action.
The decision to proceed immediately was made to convey a strong message to the Royal Fleet Auxiliary and the Ministry of Defence regarding the seriousness of the situation.
The action was initiated after management purportedly failed to present a suitable pay offer or demonstrate compliance with minimum wage laws.
Concerns also exist because seafarers often work extended hours without a clear, transparent method for calculating payment relative to those hours worked.
RMT members in the Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) have voted overwhelmingly to accept an improved pay offer from the Ministry of Defence, bringing an end to a hard-fought dispute and delivering significant wins on pay and conditions.
- Significant uplifts in salaries and earnings including backpay which goes some of the way to address the suppression of pay over many years.
- Key benefits like travel vouchers and the bonus scheme retained for the duration of the agreement.
- Shorter assignments and better work-life balance.
RFA have implemented a one-year deal of 4.5% which is wholly unacceptable to RMT members. Up to 500 RFA seafarers are prepared to take action unless a negotiated settlement can be reached.
RFA Seafarers Strike Calendar
5 Strike Dates 1 Planned