Aer Lingus unions threaten strike over cuts

AER LINGUS unions yesterday upped the pressure on the airline’s management by balloting for industrial action and threatening to strike if the planned 1,300 job cuts are forced through.

SIPTU, which represents half of Aer Lingus workers, fired a warning shot at management that no changes can be made without proper consultation with staff.

Following a meeting yesterday of up to 100 Aer Lingus shop stewards from Dublin, Cork and Shannon, the union said it is holding a protective ballot for industrial action over the next fortnight to ensure it can take immediate action if the airline management attempts to enforce job cuts or any other changes unilaterally.