IBEC: Threat of action by Aer Lingus pilots 'inexcusable'

IBEC has said that the planned disruption from next week by Aer Lingus pilots is "a clear example of opportunism of the worst kind" by members of the pilots union IALPA.

IBEC director Brendan McGinty, said: "It is inexcusable that up to 30,000 passengers each day will be disrupted if this needless action goes ahead.

"This is the last thing the country needs at a time when Government is taking measures to support the hospitality sector by encouraging more tourists to visit Ireland and when every effort is being made every day to repair Ireland’s reputation abroad.

Mr McGinty said that the disruption is "a self-serving measure" by IALPA.

He said: "This is a cynical attempt by the union representing the most highly paid group in the airline to use the travelling public as pawns in its dispute.

"If IALPA has any regard for the travelling public, it should immediately withdraw its threatened action without prevarication. This would allow for the fullest engagement on the issues between the parties before the Labour Relations Commission in a calm and normal work environment."