Unions call for wage rise after Qantas profit soars
Qantas unions renewed demands for pay increases and job security following the airline's strong first half results (AAP, 18-Feb-2011). The Australian Services Union (ASU), which represents Qantas administration and check-in staff, stated the airline could no longer ignore its members' long-running 5% wage claim. AIPA pilots' union president Barry Jackson said today's profit announcement would have little direct effect on negotiations, but Captain Jackson called for the profit growth to be used to better protect Australian jobs.
ASU: "Qantas should consider this in the light of their healthy profits and think about acknowledging the irreplaceable contribution that their staff make to their quality reputation for service and safety," Linda White, assistant national secretary. Source: The Australian, 18-Feb-2011.
ASU: "We've been saying for a long time now 'show us the money' and they've [Qantas] always had some weasel words to avoid doing so. But now they can't, they can't say they can't afford it any more." Linda White, assistant national secretary. Source: AAP, 18-Feb-2011.
AIPA: "It's management's job to get a yield and that's clearly what they've done. But they need to reinvest that money where it can achieve the best results and where it can best protect the jobs of our members here in Australia." Barry Jackson, Secretary. Source: AAP, 18-Feb-2011.
TWU: "Qantas has struggled in recent years due to the GFC, numerous safety incidents and poor management decisions. Not only did the last group of executives think it was a great idea to sell off our national airline to private equity, the current crop is intent on lifting profits by driving down standards in security for employees and customers ... Qantas still dominated 65% of the Australian domestic market, but while Jetstar is pursuing investments in the Philippines, Vietnam, and now Indonesia, assurance must be given that, as an Australian airline, Australian standards must be enforced across the operations." Tony Sheldon, secretary. Source: TWU, 17-Feb-2010. [more - TWU]