Derry Seagate engineering specialists vote for representation by Unite

Around 270 workers employed as engineering specialists by Seagate, at Springtown in Derry have voted overwhelmingly for collective representation by Unite.

The vote is the second by a large group of workers at the Springtown-based hard drive manufacturer. Last year, in what was a groundbreaking success for a union in the sector, Unite secured collective bargaining rights for 550 manufacturing specialists.

Engineering specialists play a vital role in the company, maintaining processes, buildings and equipment at the factory.

The vote opens the door to a formal recognition agreement being concluded quickly as management at the factory have already committed that if workers vote for collective bargaining they will engage with the union. 

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “This is another big win for the workers at Seagate. There is a growing determination among workers to have a strong collective voice in Unite.

“Congratulations to all those involved in securing this success. I wish them well in the challenges ahead in securing real improvements to jobs, pay and conditions for those employed at the factory.”

As a result of last year’s recognition agreement for manufacturing specialists, Unite is currently engaged in negotiations with management to secure a pay increase for the current year. Talks will continue tomorrow as part of that negotiating process.

Unite regional secretary Susan Fitzgerald: “This is another huge result for Unite and for Seagate workers. These two results are the start of a new chapter in the history of trade unionism in the North West and the ripples of this success will be felt across the region.

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“Unite is committed to negotiate improvements on pay and conditions for workers at Seagate.

“We are already stepping up our organising efforts to win collective bargaining for all workers at Seagate. Seagate workers need the benefit of having a strong team of workforce reps and the resources of Unite in their corner.”