February half term travel warning with Border Force strikes planned – five tips for travelling during walkout action

HOLIDAYMAKERS have been urged to plan for mass disruption at ports next week as Border Force officials go on strike.

Industrial action is planned for February 17th, 18th, 19th and 20th, with hundreds of staff walking out.

The strike will affect inbound international travel from the Port of Calais, Port of Dunkirk, Coquelles Channel Tunnel Terminal and the Port of Dover.

The PCS union, representing Border Force staff, want an inflation busting pay rise for their members.

But this has been rejected by government, who say it’s unaffordable and will make inflation worse.

Military personnel, civil servants and volunteers are currently being trained to man border security on strike days.

However, disruption during the February half term will still be widespread.

Steve Dann Border Force Chief Operating Officer said: “It is disappointing for travellers that yet again strike action may cause disruption for those entering the UK.

“Border Force’s number one priority to is keep our citizens safe and borders secure. We are working together with partners across the travel industry and our French counterparts to ensure we can continue to meet critical demand and support the flow of passengers and goods through our border.

“During the periods of industrial action, travellers should be prepared for disruption. We encourage everyone to check the latest advice from operators before travelling.”

The government has published five tips for minimising disruption during the strikes. They are:

1. When travelling into the UK, please prepare yourself and your family for longer wait times at border control.

2. Use eGates where available as the quickest and most efficient way to pass through border control.

3. Always check with your operator before you travel and follow their advice on when to arrive at the port / terminal.

4. Be kind and patient with Border Force staff, who are working hard over this challenging period to support passengers and ensure you get to where you want to be.

5. Be reassured that we have additional resource to support travellers and Border Force’s number one priority is to keep our border safe and secure for all passengers.