Wage Negotiations and Mediation

It comes as no surprise that wage negotiations have now progressed to mediation. While this is a normal part of the Norwegian bargaining process, mediation represents the final stage before any potential strike action.

Although we cannot share details of the ongoing discussions, both the union and the club have begun preparations should a strike become necessary. Date for mediation just announced 1. and 2. july 2026.

We are extremely proud of our members and of the strength of our club. Several months ago, SAFE invited members to submit proposals for changes to the text of the tariff agreement. A number of our members took the time to put forward thoughtful and constructive suggestions.

We are pleased to say that some of these proposals progressed all the way to the main negotiations. While we do not yet know which items will ultimately be agreed, the key point is this: as a SAFE member, you have the power to influence real change in your pay, conditions, and working environment.

This is a significant achievement and a clear example of how collective involvement leads to better outcomes for everyone.

For those new to working in Norway, it is important to note that if mediation is successful and an agreement is reached, any pay increase awarded will be backdated to the 1^st June.

Training Committee and Rig System Training

Following discussions and our submission about training for new personnel—particularly on rig systems, we sought clarity on the role of the Training Committee in Norway now that training is being coordinated from Houston.

It has been agreed that minutes from these meetings will be shared with us going forward. We will also explore appointing someone with a strong technical background to the Training Committee to ensure employees benefit from experienced input on effective and relevant training.

We remain firm in our belief that employees should be properly trained and supported, rather than relying on a “learn by doing” approach.

New Recruitment and Union Engagement

We recently discussed the best approach for engaging with new employees regarding union membership. Our position remains that employees should not be approached until they have officially joined their rig and had time to settle into their role. Unfortunately, this approach is not currently being followed by other unions.

At present, the company is unable to enforce a consistent process, leaving us with an important decision on whether to continue standing by our principles moving forward.

On a positive note, we have a set of Apple Earbuds to be included in a prize draw for our newest members. Anyone who has joined or joins between 1st May and 15th June will automatically be entered, so there is still time to take part.

Membership Benefits for Those Outside Norway and Sweden

We would like to highlight an important benefit that SAFE continues to provide for members who are no longer employed by the company and who reside outside Norway and Sweden.

Membership remains free for individuals living outside these countries, ensuring continued access to support and assistance for any issues linked to their employment in Norway. This support remains extremely valuable, as demonstrated by a current ongoing case we are actively assisting with.

Claus Bachman – UK Contract Tax help

We have already agreed that Norwegian terms will continue to apply for this short‑term contract, and we are satisfied that the rotation arrangement remains fair and consistent with our expectations.

Further discussions have now confirmed that any employee experiencing tax implications because of working outside Norway will receive support from Ernst & Young. The company has assured us that no one will be financially disadvantaged because of this temporary contract arrangement.

Noble Endeavour – Short Stay in Bergen

While we have currently two rigs in Bergen, they will be joined by the Noble Endeavour, which is arriving for a short yard stay before heading down to the North Falkland’s Basin for an 11‑well contract. Now that is what you call a crew change.

New Employees to Norway – Navigating NAV and Digital IDs in Norway

 NAV (Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration) is a government agency in Norway that

provides social and financial security, facilitates employment, and offers various welfare services.

Here are some key points about NAV:

Services provided by NAV

NAV offers a wide range of services, including:

• Financial support: Unemployment benefits, sickness benefits, disability benefits, pensions, and child benefits
• Employment services: Job search assistance, vocational training, and employment schemes
• Health services: Support for those with health issues, including rehabilitation and assistive devices
• Family services: Benefits for families with children, parental leave, and childcare support
• Social services: Financial advice, debt counselling, and social assistance

Information held by NAV

NAV holds various types of information about individuals, including:

• Personal information: Name, address, date of birth, and social security number
• Employment history: Details of employment, income, and contributions to social security
• Health records: Information related to health benefits and medical history
• Financial records: Details of benefits received, pension contributions, and other financial transactions

Accessing Your NAV Information

NAV uses the information it holds to provide individuals with the correct services and benefits. If you need to review your records or have specific questions about the information NAV maintains, you can log in securely using BankID or Buypass via their website.

It is very important that you have access to these systems. Any SAFE member who does not yet have a BankID can contact us, and we will assist you in getting this set up.