Aer Arann workers to vote on strike

Workers in Aer Arann are to ballot for industrial action in Dublin airport over the plans to outsource check-in and other functions.

Siptu said the decision to hold the ballot was taken after a meeting of the union's Aer Arann branch today. The union said the action could include the full strike action Aer Arann workers

"This unanimous decision has been taken after Aer Arann failed to engage positively with Siptu on a significant number of outstanding issues regarding the outsourcing of operational and check-in functions," a union statement said.

Siptu sectoral organiser Dermot O'Loughlin said: "It is extremely disappointing that Aer Arann will neither meet us directly, nor attend the Labour Relations Commission - particularly as the company has benefitted from €100 million from the Irish taxpayer".

The ballot is due to commence today and is expected to be concluded by the weekend.