Sellafield site takeover still on course

Last updated 11:48, Thursday, 28 August 2008

THE proposed new operator of Sellafield has denied speculation its takeover of the site could be delayed by strike action.

Rumours have swept the site claiming that if staff were to walk out in a row over pay, and plants are closed as a result, Nuclear Management Partners (NMP) could put back the date it takes control.

NMP, a consortium of American, French and British companies (URS Washington, Areva and Amec) won the race to become the preferred bidder for the Sellafield contract, which is not due to be awarded until October 6.

NMP would not move on to the site until after shares have been transferred on November 24.

Washington’s local operations director, Iain Irving, said: “I can assure you that no statements have been made by NMP to suggest any potential impact on share transfer dates as a result of any potential industrial action.”

The nuclear site’s industrial unions – GMB and Unite – have started ballots calling on their members to reject a pay offer and vote in favour of industrial action. Their result will be known on September 8.