A STRIKE HAS been averted at one of the country’s biggest porridge manufacturers after a change in a pay offer to workers.

Workers at Flahavan’s in Kilmacthomas in Co Waterford have secured a change in the company’s approach to a proposed pay deal following a unanimous vote for strike action.

Trade union Unite, which represents the overwhelming majority of workers at the plant, says management has now agreed to decouple the proposed pay increase from a flexibility policy which had not been agreed or negotiated with the union.

The development follows a ballot for industrial action, commenced on 12 August and closed on 21 August, after workers rejected management’s attempt to link the new pay agreement with the proposed flexibility arrangements.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham welcomed the decision, saying the outcome demonstrated the importance of workers standing together and being prepared to take industrial action.

She said: “Our members’ dedication and expertise have made Flahavan’s a household name throughout Ireland and that the latest development showed that the best way for workers to defend their terms and conditions is by being organised in a strong union.’”

The 100 Unite workers will now ballot on the proposed pay deal. Once that process is complete, Unite and management are expected to engage on the remaining issues, including the flexibility arrangements.

Unite regional officer Eoin Drummey said the decision by the company to “decouple the proposed pay deal from an unagreed flexibility policy vindicates our members’ position”.

A spokesperson for Flavahan’s said: “We have worked hard to provide a constructive way forward that supports our employees while ensuring the long-term success of the business.

“We welcome the decision by our employees not to proceed with industrial action. This represents a positive step in the process, and we hope it will enable all parties to move towards a fair and sustainable resolution.

“Flahavan’s greatly values its employees and the positive working relationship we have built together over many years. We remain committed to engaging constructively and look forward to the outcome of the ballot on the proposed agreement.”

The Flavahan’s plant which is located at Kilmacthomas produces over half all the oats sold in Ireland.