Union Calls for Furlough Support for Lindsey Oil Refinery Workers Amid Redundancies

Over 100 employees at Lindsey Oil Refinery in North East Lincolnshire are facing job loss due to redundancies. The unions implored the government to extend furlough support in the wake of the refinery’s owner, Prax Group, entering administration and site control being seized by the Official Receiver. Harriet Eisner, Unite regional co-ordinating officer, petitioned for government intervention, stating, “The government needs to demonstrate its support for the workers and keep them on furlough until a new buyer comes on board.” Michael Shanks, the Energy Minister, expressed concern for the financially impacted workers and their families, acknowledging the setback faced by the community.

The Insolvency Service is on a mission to find prospective buyers, with around 255 employees still working at the site. Regardless, Shanks confirmed there were no immediate offers to recommence refinery operations. The Official Receiver is currently assessing bids, hoping for a settlement in the forthcoming weeks. The affected employees were informed on 30 September, and the government proposed a training guarantee to assist in finding new employment prospects.

An anonymous worker spoke of the “surreal environment” as employees started saying their goodbyes, emphasising the uncertainty being experienced by those leaving. “If the government allows the dismantling of this site resulting in the loss of hundreds of jobs, it would be a complete abdication of its duty”, the worker commented, indicating the importance of keeping skilled workers to ensure the refinery’s safe operation.

The situation at Lindsey Oil Refinery remains a pressing issue for the local community, with many keeping a close eye on the developments, knowing their potential impact on the future of employment in the region.

This report was adapted by The Lincoln Post from original reporting via www.bbc.com.