Upcoming talks between unions and management at the Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) are to address proposed cost reduction measures in the face of an unprecedented collapse in passenger numbers through Dublin and Cork airports.

The news came as transport minister Shane Ross said his department had established an expert taskforce on recovery in the Irish aviation industry. Fórsa has argued for State supports to the sector – including airports, airlines and related operations – since coronavirus-related health measures effectively shut down the industry in March.

Last week DAA management confirmed to Fórsa that pay arrangements for staff in both airports have been extended until 18th July. The union had sought the extension from the originally-planned expiry date of 20th June.

Fórsa official Johnny Fox said it was welcome news during a difficult time for the airport workforce. He said unions were now in the early stages of discussions to address the major challenges facing the company and its staff.

“The collapse of air passenger traffic through both airports presents significant challenges. In 2019 Dublin and Cork airports served over 35 million passengers, which was an unprecedented peak in traffic. The company is seeking to reduce costs through a range of measures as it looks toward a projected 21 million passengers next year,” he said.

Johnny said there was a huge amount of uncertainty over when and whether passenger numbers would recover.

“Our approach will be to maximise the potential to retain jobs and protect pay, and to prepare the ground for an eventual recovery in passenger numbers. All the parties involved recognise the severity of the impact of the Covid-19 crisis on this industry. Any measures agreed now will be designed to facilitate pay and jobs recovery in line with the recovery of the industry,” he said.

The aviation task force has been asked to prepare an aviation recovery action plan, setting out recommendations for consideration by Government, by 10th July.

Read Fórsa’s advice on returning to your workplace HERE.

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