SIPTU prepares for Aer Lingus strike ballot

THE impending battle between unions and the Government over the privatisation of Aer Lingus moved a step closer yesterday with SIPTU preparing to ballot on possible strike action in the coming weeks.

With an expected Government decision to sell 75% of the airline just around the corner, SIPTU is to hold a series of emergency meetings around the country next week to consider a strike ballot.

However, in a more conciliatory meeting than expected yesterday, Transport Minister Martin Cullen promised no decision would be made in the next two weeks before further discussions are held with unions. An expected decision before the end of February was not forthcoming leaving a mooted June flotation increasingly in doubt.