SYDNEY, Sept. 22 (Xinhua) -- Chevron and a workers' union in Australia have agreed to finalize deals for an end to the strikes across Gorgon and Wheatstone liquefied natural gas (LNG) facilities, after both sides endorsed a recommendation proposed by the Fair Work Commission (FWC) on Thursday.
The Offshore Alliance, comprising the Australian Workers' Union and the Maritime Union of Australia, said on Friday that the union would work with Chevron to finalize the drafting of the three agreements, and members would soon cease current industrial action.
The announcement came after over 350 workers from three gas facilities - Gorgon, Wheatstone Platform, and Wheatstone Downstream - met on Thursday night to consider the recommendation put by FWC Commissioner Bernie Riordan.
"Commissioner Riordan's recommendation contains substantial improvements in terms and conditions of employment, including increased remuneration, job security, locked-in rosters, career progression, and returning all employees to a 40 percent roster," said Brad Gandy, a spokesperson for the Offshore Alliance.
"At a late-night mass meeting, members endorsed the latest offer, which incorporates the Fair Work Commission's recommendations," Gandy noted.
On Thursday morning, Riordan's suggestions were presented to both Chevron and Offshore Alliance members.
A spokesperson from Chevron Australia issued a statement on Thursday evening, expressing their acceptance of the recommendation.
"After considering the recommendation, Chevron has accepted the recommendation to resolve all outstanding issues and finalize the agreements," said the spokesperson. "We have informed the Commissioner of our position and written to the unions and other employee bargaining representatives confirming our acceptance."
Chevron's Gorgon and Wheatstone projects in Western Australia, together, have the capacity to produce 24.5 million tonnes of LNG each year.
Since Sept. 8, around 500 union members at all three West Coast facilities have commenced an industrial action, which could threaten seven percent of the world's LNG supply, according to the Australian Financial Review. ■
