Published: 26 Nov 2009
Maritime Union members employed by Total Marine Services in the offshore industry have voted in favour of industrial action
Workers at TMS voted strongly in favour protected strikes, work bans and other action in a ballot on Wednesday, but there is still hope of a negotiated settlement and talks continue.
MUA members and the union have been pushing for wage parity and a pay increase during 12 months of negotiations
The ballot follows Fair Work Australia hearings which approved the ballot.
MUA (WA branch) assistant secretary Will Tracey told Workforce Express talks are continuing and he is hopeful industrial action can be avoided.
"Our guys work alongside riggers on $1400 a day, they are sitting on the back deck of a vessel doing the same work and if anything have more skills but are being paid less, so pay parity is a big issue," said Will Tracey.
