SIPTU warns baggage handlers row may escalate

SIPTU has warned of a "significant escalation" of industrial action in the dispute between baggage staff and CityJet Handling at Dublin Airport.

Up to 100 workers began a series of lightning strikes last week over pay rates. They claim they are paid significantly less than staff doing similar work for other companies at the airport.

The company, which is separate from CityJet airlines, controls check-ins and handles the baggage for a number of airlines including Air France, Aer Aran Express, British European Airlines, Air Wales and CityJet.

This morning, SIPTU branch official Mr Dermot O'Loughlin told ireland.comhe anticipated a "quite significant escalation of the dispute" over the coming days.

He said other airport staff had indicated to him they were prepared for a "major supportive action".

"They feel the value of their work is being undermined by the poor pay of our members," Mr O’Loughlin claimed.

He said SIPTU had offered to avail of the Labour Relations Commission and independent mediators to solve the dispute, but management at CityJet Handling refused.

However, a spokesman for the company insisted the dispute was about union recognition.

"There is no union recognition in CityJet Handling as the majority of staff have constantly opted for the current internal system, rather than have a third party negotiate on their behalf."

SIPTU says it represents 90 per cent of the 120 baggage handling staff.

CityJet Handling Ltd was recently bought by French firm Groupe Crit, which is one of the biggest handling companies in the world.