​Industrial action begins at Electricity Authority - Unite says this will not affect emergencies

Industrial action has begun at the Electricity Authority - however, Unite says this will not affect emergencies. The union says while there have been positive talks about its members' concerns, issues remain.

For its part, the Government says it's "disappointed" at the decision to pursue industrial action despite the progress made.

Earlier this week, Unite said it had major concerns regarding some of the working conditions at GibElec. These include health and safety issues as well as a long-standing claim.

Now, the union has confirmed the planned "go slow" action has begun - although it says talks will continue.

National Officer, Stuart Davies, told GBC while the action will result in tasks stacking up, Unite’s members will continue to attend to emergencies.

In response, Number Six says officials met with Unite yesterday, and discussed the members' grievances on health and safety at length.

It says it gave assurances these would be looked at, and committed to an independent review into current practices and procedures.

The Government says it's disappointed that Unite has now raised a range of issues including pay.

It says it remains open to continuing discussion - and that it regrets the industrial action, saying this should only ever be a "last resort option".