The Scottish Government has arranged for an independent expert to help both parties resolve the dispute over pensions which may lead to industrial action at Grangemouth Oil Refinery.

Ministers have invited Stewart Ritchie, the president of the Faculty of Actuaries to carry out a study to clarify the issues which are in dispute between INEOS and Unite in relation to proposals for the future of the INEOS pension fund.

The study will also provide an additional measure of independent expertise to the current consultation, and give more time to help both parties reach a negotiated agreement.

The offer has been conveyed to both INEOS and trade union representatives by Ministers, who are now awaiting their response. If after due consideration, the parties are favourable to the initiative and to cooperate with the furnishing of relevant financial information, it would mean the suspension of industrial action on 27 and 28 April pending the resumption of substantive negotiations aided by the report which will be issued by Ritchie, which ministers have requested be available to both parties by the end of May, or earlier if possible.

However, the report would be non-binding and if agreement were not reached at the end of the process and the dispute remained unresolved, then industrial action could ensue.

Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Sustainable Growth John Swinney said: “It is not acceptable for this dispute to go unresolved and inconvenience Scottish people and business.

“This is a matter that must be solved by constructive dialogue involving both parties.

“To that end, and to encourage this dialogue to take place, Ministers have invited Stewart Ritchie, President of the Faculty of Actuaries to carry out a study to clarify the issues which are in dispute between INEOS and Unite in relation to proposals for the future of the INEOS pension fund.

“As President of the Faculty of Actuaries, Stewart Ritchie is in a unique position to provide the distinguished, independent and quality advice needed to help the parties concerned to find a resolution to these issues.

“Such independent expertise will clarify the situation and should ensure both parties reach the amicable solution which I am convinced is possible – without the disruption that any potential strike action may cause.”

Meanwhile, talks aimed at resolving a dispute which could shut down at the refinery will be held at conciliation service ACAS today.

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