Aer Lingus averts strike action
Friday, 21 Nov 2008 09:32
A potential strike at Irish flag-carrier Aer Lingus has been averted after the airline and unions reached agreement over a proposed cost cutting initiative.
As a result of the deal the airline will now implement up to £40 million worth of savings without outsourcing. Initially Aer Lingus had planned to make the savings by cutting 1,500 jobs and outsourcing the roles.
Members of Siptu, the union representing staff, had voted for a strike which was due to start on Monday. This has now be postponed as staff consult on the latest offer made by the airline.
A Siptu spokesman said: "There will be no industrial action or strike action commenced during the process.
"But if Siptu members reject the proposal, the union mandate remains live and can be activated if the company proceeds with outsourcing."
In response a spokesperson for Aer Lingus said: "Aer Lingus welcomes the withdrawal of the notice of intended industrial action by Siptu and the removal of uncertainty for our customers intending to travel next week."
Chris O'Toole
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