SIPTU members in ground operations for Aer Lingus in Cork Airport were today (Tuesday, 18th May) informed that the airline intends to place them on temporary layoff, from 12th September to 22nd November, while runway reconstruction is underway. SIPTU Sector Organiser, Neil McGowan, said: “Our members are devastated and extremely disappointed by today’s announcement that ground staff at Cork Airport will be laid off while the runway is being reconstructed later this year. The workers involved have been on significantly reduced earnings throughout the pandemic and this latest announcement comes as a further blow. We are calling on the company to engage with our union to ensure the workers are kept on the payroll.” He added: “This announcement by Aer Lingus further highlights the fact that the aviation industry will be one of the last sectors of our economy to recover. This makes the case for additional supports for aviation workers all the more urgent. SIPTU representatives have been calling for the introduction of specific supports for aviation workers while the uncertainty around the current wage supports and the pandemic unemployment payments beyond June are only adding to the workers concerns. “It is vital that Government gives certainty to aviation workers and that Aer Lingus supports its employees who have already suffered financial hardship for over one year.” SIPTU organises 60 ground staff in Aer Lingus at Cork Airport.
SIPTU members employed by Aer Lingus in Cork devastated at layoff announcement
