Unions dismiss reports of Aer Lingus cutbacks

Trade unions are dismissing reports that Aer Lingus plans to use American crew members on its flights to and from the US.

The airline is reportedly planning to recruit American crew members who would fly over and back to Ireland during a single shift.

This would eliminate the need for Aer Lingus to put its Irish crew members up in hotel rooms overnight.

The IMPACT trade union insists the move would be illegal under health and safety legislation.

Irish Congress of Trade Unions General Secretary and Aer Lingus board member David Begg has said the revelation could affect the national pay talks currently underway in government buildings.

"Quite clearly it will be raised since it is such a major employer, but the veracity of it will be another matter," he said.