Mermaid set to be hit by striking workers

Mermaid Marine Australia's Dampier Supply Base workers are planning strike action, amid ongoing negotiations regarding pay rates and job security.

Mermaid said it had received notice that all of its employees covered by an enterprise agreement with the Maritime Union of Australia would engage in 10 consecutive 24-hour stoppages of work from July 31.

The company said the industrial action would not directly affect its slipway or vessel operations, or its international operations.

Managing director Jeff Weber said Mermaid would insure the strikes do not impact on its customers.

The striking workers are seeking increased wages and long-term job security, while Mermaid said it needed to retain flexibility to service the changing needs of its clients.

“MMA is disappointed that this course of action has been taken, however we remain committed to attaining a fair and reasonable outcome for all parties,” the company said in a statement to the ASX.

At close of trade today, Mermaid shares had gained 2.7 per cent, trading at $2.05.

The warning of strike action follows yesterday’s vote by deckhands in Port Hedland to take industrial action against tugboat operator Teekay Shipping.

The MUA said 98 per cent of the Teekay workers it represents voted to take part in the strikes.

MUA assistant WA secretary Will Tracey said the workers were frustrated negotiations with Teekay were not progressing.

“Our members work the equivalent of 54 weeks a year, based on a standard 37.5 hour working week,” he said.

“They currently do not get any annual leave and feel they deserve to get leave just like everybody else.”