Transport / Warning over security jobs at ferry terminal as NorthLink takes service in-house
A WARNING has been made that security jobs at the NorthLink ferry terminal in Lerwick could be under threat as ferry operator Serco looks to take the service in-house.
The service is provided by Maritime Protection Solutions Ltd, which also provides services at the Aberdeen, Orkney and Scrabster terminals.
The next Northern Isles ferry contract is due to kick in at the end of June and Serco NorthLink will hold it for a second stint in a row.
But as part of the new contract NorthLink is looking to take some previously outsourced services in-house.
It is thought that there are currently seven people working for the Aberdeen-based Maritime Protection Solutions at the ferry terminal in Lerwick.
It is understood that Maritime Protection Solutions will explore whether TUPE employee transfer applies to this situation, but if it does not apply then redundancies may have to be made.
Serco’s operations director at NorthLink Ferries Captain John Strathearn confirmed the service was being taken in-house but said dialogue is continuing in line with TUPE regulations.
He said: “We have notified our third party supplier of the termination of contract of services, which is being brought in-house, and in line with Transfer of Undertakings Protection of Employment (TUPE) regulations are following the required procedures and dialogue with the supplier.”
Become a supporter of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.
Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has over 600 supporters who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.
Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -
- Bring you the headlines as they happen;
- Stay editorially independent;
- Give a voice to the community;
- Grow site traffic further;
- Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.
Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.