Union Drops Demands After Promise of Formal Review

Management at Aer Lingus and leaders of Ireland's largest labor union came to an agreement Monday, ending a standoff that had threatened to disrupt operations at Dublin International Airport.

Members of the Services, Industrial, Professional and Technical Union (SIPTU) have agreed to work in the new check in area at Dublin Airport, known as 'Area 14', according to the union. Noel Maguire of SIPTU's Aer Lingus Branch said "an agreement was reached after a commitment from management to address a number of issues of concern to the baggage handlers.

"These include operations and familiarization training, a review of staffing levels and an undertaking to examine certain aspects of the working environment on a monthly basis, such as airflow, cleaning and noise levels.  A number of other outstanding health and safety issues are to be addressed without delay.

"We also have a commitment that in the event of any further dispute, management will use the existing industrial disputes resolution procedures," Maguire said.

Aer Lingus built a new lower level to handle departures to Britain and the United States. More than 350 baggage handlers refused to move into the new basement level, saying it was a hotter and more cramped work environment. SIPTU demanded each employee receive an extra $1,350 a year as compensation, according the Associated Press.

After receiving assurances from Aer Lingus management, namely CEO Dermot Mannion, that the carrier would conduct an investigation of any and all health and safety issues in Area 14, the union formally dropped its demand.

The rift between the carrier and the union came to a head Monday when Aer Lingus mailed a letter to the protesting workers this weekend threatening to dock their pay if they refused to report for duty in the new location, according to the International Herald-Tribune.

"Aer Lingus has been engaged in extensive talks with staff and staff representatives over the last number of months in relation to Area 14. We welcome the successful outcome…and we can now look forward to providing our customers with an enhanced travel experience," said the carrier.

FMI: www.siptu.ie, www.dublinairport.com, www.aerlingus.com