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Security fears over Uist rocket range | Security fears over Uist rocket range |
(about 14 hours later) | |
The company which runs the Uist rocket range has been challenged to explain cuts in security at the facility. | The company which runs the Uist rocket range has been challenged to explain cuts in security at the facility. |
Local MP Angus MacNeil has claimed that cuts are being made in staff numbers, hours worked and wages. | Local MP Angus MacNeil has claimed that cuts are being made in staff numbers, hours worked and wages. |
The range test missiles from around the world and employs over 100 people. It was saved from closure in 2009. | The range test missiles from around the world and employs over 100 people. It was saved from closure in 2009. |
The operator, Qinetiq, said it is introducing new mechanisms to consult with staff as it moves into the private sector. | The operator, Qinetiq, said it is introducing new mechanisms to consult with staff as it moves into the private sector. |
Mr McNeil said: "I will contact Qinetiq and the MOD as a matter of urgency over these issues, which do no good to either organisation and also has huge implications for staff morale at both sites. | Mr McNeil said: "I will contact Qinetiq and the MOD as a matter of urgency over these issues, which do no good to either organisation and also has huge implications for staff morale at both sites. |
"Security staff working for Qinetiq have seen their wages slashed by up to 30% because of the loss of the shift allowance and the flexible roster allowance. | "Security staff working for Qinetiq have seen their wages slashed by up to 30% because of the loss of the shift allowance and the flexible roster allowance. |
"It also means that many now cannot make personal pension contributions because of these cuts. | "It also means that many now cannot make personal pension contributions because of these cuts. |
"It has also been brought to my attention that only one security guard will now be on duty at each site, guarding high tech radar and other valuable equipment." | "It has also been brought to my attention that only one security guard will now be on duty at each site, guarding high tech radar and other valuable equipment." |
A spokesman for Qinetiq said: "Over the last few months we have been having constructive discussions with the unions to address legacy employee agreements, including allowances, to reflect the current marketplace. | |
"Remuneration packages, supported by the unions, are currently being consulted on by our employees and we hope to be able to reach agreement shortly. | |
"The security of all our sites remains a top priority and staffing levels remain in proportion to regular risk assessments." | |
The spokesman added: "We are looking forward to working with all our employees in setting up the employee engagement forum, which will represent everyone in the company. | |
"The unions will continue to have a role within Qinetiq although from the end of March the new forum will take over from the voluntary collective agreement currently in place." |
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