Tugboat crews have called off a planned strike that was set to cause "severe delays and disruption" to Teesport over the busy Easter break.
Workers at Svitzer Marine had threatened a third bout of industrial action from Wednesday, affecting goods coming in and out of the port. Now workers' union Unite has secured an improved pay offer, which staff have accepted.
The crews are responsible for ensuring most of the container ships through Teesport can enter and leave safely. Workers had already carried out two periods of strike action in March, which they said caused serious delays at the port, over a pay freeze set by Svitzer.
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The Maersk-owned company's proposed freeze on pay had angered workers facing the current cost of living crisis, after the business recorded £13.9bn profits.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “By standing together, taking strike action, our members at Svitzer Marine sent a clear message to their employer and secured improved pay as a result. Unite will always give this union’s full support to our members as they seek to improve their jobs, pay and conditions.”
Unite regional officer Pat McCourt added: “The industrial action has changed the relationship with Svitzer Marine who now understand that they must treat our members with respect. It is hoped that future pay negotiations will be conducted in a more harmonious and constructive manner.”
The firm said last week its proposed pay freeze had been to "protect its competitiveness" - and therefore jobs - in the UK.
Confirming the company had reached an agreement with its Tees-based workforce, a Svitzer Marine spokesperson added: "The announced strike action has been cancelled. It is encouraging to see how constructive dialogue has led to a balanced agreement."
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