AWE job losses ignore regulatory concerns

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AWE job losses ignore regulatory concerns over shortage of skilled staff

Following months of speculation the Atomic Weapons Establishment – the company that makes the UK’s nuclear deterrent – has today (Thursday) announced approximately 500 redundancies at its Aldermaston and Burghfield sites.

Prospect, the largest of the recognised trade unions at AWE, has raised concerns that this should happen at a time when the company remains under an increased level of scrutiny by the Office for Nuclear Regulation. This stems from its use of “ageing facilities”, deteriorating programme performance and a shortage of skilled staff.

Richard Tabbner, Prospect negotiator, said: “Prospect is both shocked and disappointed that the company has decided to announce job losses at a time when the regulatory body remains concerned about the shortage of skilled personnel within the company.

“Prospect members within AWE are highly skilled and specialised in the work they undertake. We will now meet with the company and closely examine the business and safety cases for these redundancies, ensuring that AWE enters into meaningful consultation, justifying each and every proposed job loss.”

For further information contact:

Richard Tabbner
01932 577028 (w)
07713 511725 (m)
[email protected]
 
Andrew Child
020 7902 6681 (w)
07770 304480 (m)
[email protected]