Around 150 Kaefer maintenance and repair contractors working at the Mossmorran natural gas liquids and St Fergus gas plants have voted in favor of a week-long strike from November 27 to December 4. The dispute revolves around the contractor Kaefer's refusal to provide a cost-of-living payment for 2023. The workforce, including scaffold inspectors, riggers, forklift drivers, and mechanical supervisors, has expressed frustration, and the union, Unite, blames operator Shell for the standoff. Unite argues that Shell, experiencing substantial profits, should fund a cost-of-living increase for the workers, who are covered by the National Agreement for Engineering Construction Industry. The strike action could impact production at the plants, potentially affecting Shell's operations.

Shell has reported significant profits, with £7.6 billion for the first three months of the year, £3.9 billion for the three months ending in June, and £5.1 billion for the third quarter of 2023. In contrast, Kaefer recorded profits of £1.86 million in the year ending December 31, 2022. The highest-paid director at Kaefer saw their remuneration package increase to £440,000 from £356,000 in 2021. The union emphasizes the need for a fair offer and criticizes both Kaefer and Shell for their refusal to address the cost-of-living concerns raised by the workers.

The industrial action includes a week-long strike starting on November 27, supported by 75% of the workforce, and a continuous overtime ban for 12 weeks, starting with the strike action. The situation highlights tensions between workers and major corporations in the energy sector, with employees seeking fair compensation and cost-of-living adjustments in line with profits reported by the companies involved. The strike could impact essential maintenance and repair activities at the Mossmorran and St Fergus plants, prompting concerns about potential disruptions in energy production and the broader implications for the workforce and the industry.