‘No evidence whatsoever’ that Ryanair wants to engage in meaningful negotiations – IALPA/Fórsa
The Irish Airline Pilots Association (IALPA), a branch of Fórsa trade union, has responded to Ryanair correspondence sent yesterday (Wednesday), on the issue of industrial action by directly-employed Ryanair pilots due to take place next week (Thursday 12th July).
The union outlined its previous attempts to engage with the company to negotiate and agree a seniority system and associated agreements.
The letter states: “At every stage we have consulted our members and they took the decision to proceed with the ballot and serve notice because they have seen no evidence whatsoever on the part of Ryanair management to engage in meaningful negotiations with a view to reaching agreement on the issues they have presented to the company.”
“In the view of our members, as reflected in the overwhelming majority who voted in favour of industrial action, your response falls far short of what is required to reach agreement. The response from members based on all of your letters is that it is once again an attempt by the management to avert a dispute but with absolutely no intention of negotiating on what are considered to be very reasonable requirements.”
“As indicated in numerous previous letters, we are, and have always been, willing to meet you (subject to rostered duties) to discuss the issues, but the notice of industrial action stands and it is the position of IALPA/Fórsa that the 24 hour stoppage will only be averted if agreement is reached on the 11 minimum requirements in a seniority agreement.”
“We have consistently suggested a neutral venue which we will pay for and it is beyond anyone’s understanding why you will not simply agree to this. It is yet another example of a Ryanair view which is “it’s either our way or no way.”
The union said the company’s willingness to meet at a neutral venue and ‘respond positively’ on the minimum requirements for an agreement might give members some indication that the company would engage in a meaningful negotiation “and not once again present them with a “take it or leave it” offer at the 11th hour.”
The letter also states that IALPA members have requested that the union confirms a 20% pilot pay increase this year with Ryanair has not been agreed, despite claims by the company.
ENDS
Irish Air Line Pilots’ Association, Corballis Park, Dublin Airport.
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