IAA controllers threaten to renew strike action

Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) Air Traffic Controllers have threatened to strike again on 21-Jan-2010 at Dublin, Cork and Shannon airports if the IAA does not reinstate staff who have been suspended for refusing to accept its new working agreements (Associated Press/BreakingNews.ie, 20-Jan-2010). IAA suspended (20-Jan-2010) a further two air traffic controllers. This brings to a total of 14 the number of controllers now suspended. [more]

Staff are refusing IAA's request to make contributions to their pension fund and are requesting a 6% pay rise, which was promised in 2007, but put on hold until 2012 due to the global financial downturn. The controllers are also seeking additional pay for those using new ATC technology. Ireland Transport Minister, Noel Dempsey, stated the strike was "unacceptable", while Taoiseach, Brian Cowen, has urged both sides to reach an agreement.

Aer Lingus voiced (20-Jan-2010) its dissatisfaction and disappointment at the disruption caused by the industrial action within the IAA. It has resulted in the cancellation of 64 flights with over 7,000 passengers' travel plans disrupted. [more]

Ryanair called on (20-Jan-2010) Mr Dempsey to unequivocally come out in support of the IAA's stand against the Air Traffic Controllers demands for a 6% pay increase, at a time when their workload has fallen by 25%. Ryanair cancelled 48 flights, effecting over 6,000 passengers. [more]