Bournemouth Airport Workers to Strike Over Pay Dispute

London: Unite the Union has confirmed that its members will go on strike at Bournemouth Airport later this month following a dispute over pay. Approximately 80 Unite members, who work in various areas of the airport, including baggage handling, check-in, flight dispatching, and plane fuelling, had previously been due to walk out in a pay dispute. However, this action was suspended to allow workers to be balloted on whether to accept a new pay offer from the employer.

The strikes, which were previously suspended, are now scheduled to take place on September 30, October 1, October 16, and October 17. This decision comes after Unite members rejected the new pay offer from the employer. The dispute centers on pay, with workers arguing that the offers from the employer equate to a real-terms pay cut, especially considering the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. Unite general secretary Sharon Graham stated that it is unacceptable for people working for a profitable employer like Bournemouth Airport to struggle to afford essentials. The airport has seen success and profitability, with a 5% increase in airport charges and significant investments totaling over £50 million to expand the airport due to increased passenger numbers.

Key Takeaways:

• The strikes will take place on September 30, October 1, October 16, and October 17, affecting approximately 80 Unite members working in various areas of Bournemouth Airport, including baggage handling, check-in, flight dispatching, and plane fuelling.
• The dispute centers on pay, with workers rejecting the employer's new offer, citing that it equates to a real-terms pay cut, especially in the context of the cost-of-living crisis.
• Unite general secretary Sharon Graham emphasized that it is unacceptable for workers in a profitable industry like Bournemouth Airport to struggle financially.
• The airport has experienced significant recent growth, including a 5% increase in charges and £50 million investments to expand operations.
• Unite members working for the fire service at Bournemouth Airport, under a different union bargaining agreement, will not be participating in the strike after accepting a new pay deal.
• The dispute is the result of years of low pay and the employer's failure to offer fair compensation to workers.

Statistics:

• 80 Unite members are participating in the strike, accounting for a significant portion of the workforce in baggage handling, check-in, flight dispatching, and plane fuelling.
• Bournemouth Airport serves over 950,000 passengers annually.
• The airport offers flights to 34 destinations across Europe and North Africa, mainly operated by TUI and Ryanair.
• The airport's expansion includes a 5% increase in airport charges and investments totaling over £50 million.

Sources:

• Unite the Union press release
• Unite regional officer Janet Wall
• Unite general secretary Sharon Graham