Aer Lingus unions pull out of talks

Unions at Aer Lingus have pulled out of talks on a cost-saving plan claiming the negotiations were a "charade".

Unions at Aer Lingus have pulled out of talks on a cost-saving plan claiming the negotiations were a "charade".

In a statement, the Aer Lingus craft group of trade unions said it has called an end to the talks, which were opened on the basis of a National Implementation Body (NIB) recommendation in December.

The unions said Aer Lingus has continued to withhold a pay settlement due since October which was agreed as part of the national wage agreement. A second phase of the increase is due in April.

"This whole episode of talks has been a charade," said Brian Gormley of the Unite trade union and chairman of the craft workers group.

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"We are owed money since October. The airline has been engaged in stunts and mythical deadlines to delay paying what is due under the national wage agreement."

The unions said they will now refer the matter to the Labour Court.