MHK questions timing of 'what are effectively fire and rehire letters'

"Negotiation has to be a two-way street"

An MHK has questioned the timing of what he says are 'effectively fire and rehire letters' from the Steam Packet.

David Ashford says 'negotiation has to be a two-way street' and argues 'negotiating under a cloud of termination of contract is not a negotiation, it's an ultimatum'.

On Friday (22 December), the seafarers' union Nautilus claimed its members received notice of termination after refusing to sign new contracts of employment.

Mr Ashford said: "To issue what are effectively fire and rehire letters is of concern at any time, but to do it right as the Christmas season begins is at best unfortunate and ignores the impact on those staff effected. Heaping on stress and upset at what is supposed to be a peaceful time with their loved ones."