26 Mar 2022 | 01:57 PM UTC
UK, Ireland, Neth.: Protests at ports in Dover, Hull, and Liverpool March 26 following mass dismissals at P&O Ferries /update 1
Protests at Dover, Hull, and Liverpool ports March 26 following mass dismissals at UK-based ferry company; further protests likely.
Event
Protests are likely through early April at ports where P&O Ferries operate, including between Dover and Calais, Liverpool and Dublin, Hull and Europort (Rotterdam), and Larne and Cairnryan, following the recent dismissal of 800 staff members. The National Union of Rail, Maritime, Transport Workers held protests at the ports of Dover, Hull, and Liverpool March 26. Port authorities in Dover stated that the A20 road leading to the port had been blocked, with local traffic advised to avoid the A20 and Jubilee Way. Residual disruptions are likely ongoing. Protests were earlier scheduled at the following locations and times:
Liverpool: Seafarer Centre from 11:30
Dover: Maritime House from 12:00
Hull: King George Dock from 13:00
Heightened security and localized ground travel delays are likely near all protest sites.
Context
P&O Ferries owner DP World announced the mass dismissal of staff members on March 17 as part of a restructuring of the firm. Ferries were briefly canceled as dismissed staff were disembarked and replaced with agency workers.
Advice
Allow for additional time for travel in the vicinity of the ports of Dover, Hull, and Liverpool. Exercise caution near protest sites. Check service status before travel if planning to use ferry services between the UK and France, the Netherlands, or Ireland. Consider taking ferry routes at ports not served by P&O Ferries or taking alternative transportation methods.
