Union leaders made a sensational U-turn tonight over a 24-hour ferry strike due to begin on Friday.
Major disruption was expected throughout the weekend when all Western Isles mainland routes were hit as crews stopped work over fears about job security and pensions.
The dispute was triggered by the tendering of the contract for CalMac’s Clyde and Hebrides ferry routes.
The maritime union RMT was concerned that – regardless who wins – the new contract will trigger changes in employees’ current terms and conditions.
However, RMT has announced it has “suspended” strike action for the moment to allow “further discussions” to take place aimed at resolving the row.
In a letter to members, RMT General Secretary, Mick Cash, said the government had agreed to delay the tendering process, which would give them time to further explore their “modest demands”.
He instructed all members to work as normal.
“Following further discussions this afternoon, and the Scottish Government agreeing to delay the publication of the Draft Invitation to Tender until July 31, 2015, RMT has agreed to suspend the current industrial action planned,” he said.
“This suspension is to allow detailed discussions with all parties regarding the modest demands made by RMT around no compulsory redundancies, staffing levels, protection of terms & conditions and pensions.
“A timetable has been agreed for these discussions which must be concluded by July 24, 2015.”