Oil: a fight for recognition
A wave of unofficial strikes have been sweeping oil platforms in the North Sea over the last two months. The dispute over safety, pay and conditions is fast turning into a battle for union recognition throughout the industry. The strikes are organised by an unofficial rank and file body - the Oil Industry Liaison Committee, or OIL, but they have the tacit support of local union leaders. The disputes began with contract workers who want guaranteed pay and conditions under the Offshore Construction Agreement. At present bosses cancel the agreement when rigs hook up and begin oil production. Most...