Aer Lingus urged to reopen talks with union

The Government industrial trouble-shooter tonight urged Aer Lingus and trade union Siptu to return to talks.

The National Implementation Body (NIB), which intervened in the dispute over the carrier’s €74m cost-cutting plan, said there was a need for a competitive standard in the airline to ensure viability.

It requested both sides meet with the Labour Relations Commission (LRC), where talks collapsed in recent weeks.

Siptu has issued strike notice on the carrier, which wants to wipe 50 million euro from staffing costs by outsourcing 1,300 jobs.

The union said it believes a process can be found to end the dispute, while Aer Lingus maintains the move must go ahead.

Tonight, the NIB said it remains of the view there is a need to achieve a competitive standard in the airline in order to ensure viability.

In a statement, the body said it requested contact be made with both sides by the LRC to allow it to become familiar with, and explore, the potential of all aspects of alternative measures now being considered.

“This exploration and assessment by the LRC would take place without prejudice to the position of either party,” it said.

“The body believes that solutions need to be urgently found to the current difficulties.

“In this regard, the body notes that the parties are agreed that such solutions must offer long-term viability and stability for both the company and its workers.”

The NIB said it should be briefed by the LRC on the outcome of its work no later than Monday, when it will explore with the parties what assistance, if any, it can offer in achieving a final resolution of those issues where differences remain.