EasyJet
baggage handlers at Luton airport have
voted to strike over pay and management’s failure to honour a union recognition
ballot.
In
all, 98 per cent voted in favour of industrial action.
Yesterday
the company and unions met to discuss trade union recognition.
T&G
and Amicus want an agreement that covers both unions at EasyJet and Go –
following the merger of the two companies.
T&G
deputy general secretary Tony Woodley said: "In spite of the obvious
difficulties I remain hopeful that further discussions with the company
scheduled for next week at the TUC may resolve our problems."
Members
of the T&G also say the imposed 1.3 per cent pay increase is inadequate and
want assurance that their terms and conditions will be protected through the
merger with Go.
T&G
regional industrial organiser John Street said: "Our members want a
realistic pay offer which is not linked to performance or target setting. The
1.3 per cent imposed by the company does not meet their needs.
"The
threat of a strike is very real. The company has rightly agreed to meet us with
a view to addressing our members’ concerns."
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The
T&G is also demanding that EasyJet recognises the union following a
recognition ballot where 97 per cent of baggage handlers and 96 per cent of
cabin crew voted in favour of the T&G being recognised.
