Hundreds of frustrated holidaymakers have found themselves stuck in six-hour queues trying to get to Dover as a result of ‘nightmare’ Border Force strikes.
Border Force staff in Calais, Dunkirk, Dover and the Coquelles Channel Tunnel terminal have caused a ‘nightmare of UK passport control’ as a result of their four-day strike over pay.
P&O Ferries announced that it is taking six-and-a-half hours for coaches to be processed from arrival at the ferry terminal in Calais for Dover.
They have advised passengers to use the toilet before arriving and to come prepared with refreshments as it is expected to be a long wait for those travelling.
The Home Office said it was working to minimise delays during this busy period.
Hundreds of frustrated holidaymakers have found themselves stuck in six-hour queues trying to get to Dover as a result of ‘nightmare’ Border Force strikes
Half-term holidaymakers are facing delays on the way back into the UK as a result of planned strike action by Border Force staff
Following posts made on social media, it is believed that the intense volume of families and coaches bringing students home from half-term trips abroad.
A Twitter account for Heathside School from Surrey’s skiing trip took to social media to share their annoyance with the incredibly long queue times.
They wrote: ‘Coach B have managed to get on the 12:35pm crossing and Coach A are booked onto the 1:55pm crossing after what can only be described as a nightmare of UK passport control.’
Tim Shires, another unhappy traveller, wrote on Twitter: ‘Been sat here 4 hours already… still about another 6-8 hours of queues ahead.
‘Don’t think I’m gonna make it to Sunderland in time for kick off’.
UK Border Force staff are currently on strike until the morning of February 20, which has caused frustration for holidaymakers and tourists coming back to Britain.
Read Related Also: Prince Harry drapes protective arm around Meghan Markle before they accept ‘anti-racism’ award in NY
Border staff began their walkout yesterday morning – where the warnings of significant delays for travellers first began.
The union claimed that they believed inexperienced staff were being brought in to cover for striking Border Force workers.
A Twitter account for Heathside School’s, Surrey, skiing trip took to social media to share their annoyance with the long wait
PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka said: ‘Ministers say their priority is security – it obviously isn’t.
‘They say they have no money to give our hard-working members a fair pay rise, but then find money to pay non-striking workers a healthy bonus, to pay for their transport across the country and to pay for four nights’ hotel accommodation.
‘If ministers were serious about security, they would resolve this dispute immediately by putting money on the table to ensure fully-trained, experienced professionals are guarding our borders.’
A spokesperson said: ‘The queues at the Port of Calais today are not due to industrial action. Border Force operations there remain fluid with all booths open and no significant wait times.
‘Border Force and port operators are working hard to ensure all travellers have a safe and secure journey, however, we have been clear those entering the UK should expect disruption during strike action.
‘We continue to work closely with port operators at a local and national level to minimise delays.
‘Those travelling into the UK today should keep up-to-date with the latest advice from operators to check how the strike action will affect their journey’.
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.’
