BORDER force strikes could cause chaos for Brits travelling into the UK this month, according to a warning from the Government.
Every airport and travel port in the country is expected to be affected by the walkouts.
AlamyBorder Force strikes could cause travel disruption from Wednesday, March 15[/caption]
More than 130,000 Public and Commerical Services (PCS) Union members at government departments and agencies are set to take part in the day of cross-sector action, including border force staff.
The action will commence on the morning of Wednesday, March 15 and last until around 7am on Thursday, March 16.
The union members are walking out over a dispute over pay, pensions, redundancy terms and job security.
As a result, the UK Government has urged passengers to “be prepared to face longer wait times at UK border control and check with their operator before they travel”.
Steve Dann, border force chief operating officer, said: “It is disappointing that yet again strike action may cause disruption to travellers entering the UK.
“Border force’s number one priority to is keep our citizens safe and borders secure.
“We are working closely with port operators and partners across the travel industry to meet critical demand and support the flow of passengers and goods through our border.
“During this period of industrial action, travellers should be prepared for disruption.
“We encourage everyone to check the latest advice from operators before travelling.”
The government has said that “extensive planning” has been undertaken to limit the effect.
However, they are still expecting problems.
They said: “The UK government has undertaken extensive planning to minimise disruption, reduce queues and keep our border safe ahead of border force strike action.
“Since strikes were announced by the PCS Union, hundreds of people from across government and the military have been trained to carry out essential checks at the border, as well as to detect harmful goods and safeguard vulnerable individuals.”
The disruption may not be limited to passengers heading into the UK either.
In France, several unions have also called for strike action and demonstrations on Wednesday 15 March.
The government warns: “This industrial action may lead to additional disruption to services and queues at French ports not due to border force strike action.”
Families heading abroad during the Easter holidays are also being warned of travel chaos due to strike action.
Last month, more than 3,000 workers called to strike during the school break.
Unite confirmed that staff included in the walkout include security guards, engineers and firefighters.
The call to strike follows the rejection of a 10 per cent pay rise and claim some staff earn as little as £24k.
If it goes ahead, Brits face cancelled and delayed flights as well as long airport queues.
Meanwhile, these are the dates for train strikes this month.
And Brits will soon need a new visa waiver to enter Europe.
The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) will cost an extra €7 (£6).
ReutersEvery airport in the UK is expected to be affected by the walkouts[/caption] Read More