Unite has notified Anglo Beef Processors UK (ABP) of a forthcoming strike ballot at the company’s Lurgan plant.
The ballot will open on Thursday, September 25, and closes on Tuesday, October 13.
Unite represents more than 150 meat packers, trimmers, distribution, kill line and boning workers on the site.
Unite is seeking a cost-of-living pay increase for its members who are paid a piece rate. Management have offered 3.2 per cent to the workforce with a one-off cash payment of £100 – a real-terms pay cut.
This offer was overwhelmingly rejected by workers.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham, said: “ABP food group is a highly successful company whose success is built by its workers. It can fully afford to pay a decent pay increase but has prioritised profits over people.
“The ABP workers at Craigavon can count on the full support of Unite in their fight for a cost of living pay increase.”
Regional officer Sean Smyth said: “Strike action will inevitably cause severe disruption at ABP. Management needs to return to the negotiating table and deliver an offer that meets their legitimate pay needs.”
Armagh I has contacted ABP for a response.
