SIPTU optimistic strike action at Aer Lingus can be averted

Negotiators were optimistic this evening that strike action at Aer Lingus next week could be averted.

Speaking at the Labour Relations Commission shortly before 5pm, a spokesperson for SIPTU said the union and management were very close to finalising an alternative to outsourcing.

Indications were that a deal could be reached within the evening, which would then go to union members for a vote.

The two sides have been at LRC talks since last Friday.

The row centres on the company's controversial €74m cost-cutting plan, which included out-sourcing up to 1,300 jobs.

It is understood the draft agreement allows for a number of workers to be let go through a voluntary severance package.

Certain remaining workers would be switched to new terms and conditions of employment which would alter shift patterns, their working week and pay scales.

Also, any new employees would be brought in at the lowest market rate, according to a company source.

Siptu said it will start consulting its members about the framework plan at the beginning of next week.

If the deal looks like it could be favoured by a majority, then it will go to a ballot, the results of which should be known by December 4.

“There will be no industrial action or strike action commenced during the process,” said a Siptu spokesman.

“But if Siptu members reject the proposal the union mandate remains live and can be activated if the company proceeds with outsourcing.”

Previous talks aimed at resolving the dispute at the Labour Relations Commission (LRC) collapsed last month, with each side blaming the other.

But as the row deepened, threatening chaos for Christmas air passengers, the Government’s industrial relations trouble-shooter stepped in last week.

The National Implementation Body (NIB) persuaded the airline bosses and union leaders to return to the LRC, where they have been negotiating since last Friday.