Ellesmere Port dock workers at the Queen Elizabeth II dock are being balloted for strike action, after their union said a colleague was fired because a change in hours meant he could not care for his disabled mother.

Unite the union has released a statement saying that shipping firm GAC sacked the worker for “refusing a reasonable working request” after he informed the company he could not comply with the new rota due to being the primary caregiver for his disabled mother.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “GAC has behaved appallingly towards our member. The company knows full well that he is the primary caregiver for his disabled mother and should have offered a workable solution.

"This is a cruel and totally unjustified decision that has incensed the workforce and it will not go unanswered by Unite.”

GAC provides integrated shipping, logistics and marine services to the energy and shipping industries. The workers, who are jetty operators, are being balloted for industrial action which runs until July 30.

Strikes would impact vessels supplying components to the Ellesmere Port Vauxhall plant, as well as ships who rely upon the Manchester Shipping Canal, including oil tankers using the discharging jetties at Eastham Locks for Stanlow Essar.

Unite regional officer Steven Gerrard said: “GAC’s clients will be alarmed that they are being impacted by the company’s terrible and unjust treatment of this worker. GAC needs to reverse its decision immediately and enter talks with Unite to find a flexible working solution for our member, otherwise this dispute will escalate.”

A spokesperson for GAC said GAC UK is aware of the situation and has no further comment to make at this time.