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31 July, 2005
Australian oil workers are battling the world’s largest energy concern to preserve a family’s way of life. Members of ICEM affiliates Australian Manufacturing Workers Union (AMWU) and Communication, Electrical and Plumbing Union (CEPU) were informed by Esso, a subsidiary of ExxonMobil, and its contractors working the Bass Straight oil rigs off Victoria that it would shift to a two-week on, two-week off schedule, replacing the current seven-day roster. The unions are resisting the change. Contractors are seeking to terminate the enterprise bargaining agreement through Australia’s Industrial Relations Commission. The contract for oil rig workers expired last year and contractors backed by ExxonMobil refuse to discuss issues until workers agree to the 14 continuous days away from families.