NORTH SEA offshore scaffolders, engineers, deck, and rope access workers will strike over being excluded from a bonus retention scheme by Ithaca Energy, Unite said today.

The dispute involves about 20 Bilfinger employees working on the Alba Floating Storage Unit and its floating production facility (FPF1) which are operated by Ithaca.

They voted unanimously for 24-hour stoppages on May 8, 15, 22 and 29 over Ithaca Energy’s refusal to extend a retention bonus worth up to £14,500. 

Workers of other companies on the same assets receive the bonus, said the union.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Unite has been met with total obstinacy from Bilfinger and Ithaca Energy. 

“Both companies are very wealthy, and they can easily afford to pay this bonus. 

“Our members have been left with no option but to take strike action to fight for what they deserve.” 

Ithaca Energy and Bilfinger have been contacted for comment.