SIPTU representatives have today (1st May) called for detailed discussions with management in Aer Lingus following the announcement that the company intends to cut job numbers by 20%. SIPTU Sector Organiser, Neil McGowan said: “Management today informed union representatives that projections for 2021 will see the airline revenues fall by 20% and that it will seek to reduce jobs by 20%. We have requested that the company shares its detailed plans for each area and location within the company as soon as possible. SIPTU representatives will study these plans and we will seek to ensure that as many jobs as possible are maintained in the airline. We also made it clear to management that any job losses must take place on a voluntary basis. “While this news is extremely worrying to our members it is not a great surprise. The aviation sector has been severely affected by the Covid-19 crisis across Europe and Aer Lingus is not immune to this downturn. However, the aviation industry will play an important part in the long-term recovery of the economy and, for this to happen, its workers need to be supported over the coming period. We are calling on the Government to extend the wage subsidy for aviation workers for the duration of the crisis in the industry. The subsidy has played a significant role in maintaining employment and it will be required for a longer period in aviation given the global impact of the Covid-19 virus on air travel.”
SIPTU calls for detailed discussions on Aer Lingus plans for job losses
