Liverpool Airport strike averted after talks

Nov 14 2007

John Lennon Airport (320)

INDUSTRIAL action at Liverpool John Lennon Airport over a pay row has been called off after  talks.

More than 80% of members of the GMB and Unite unions had voted in favour of a strike after  rejecting a pay offer they said was below the rate of inflation.

A spokeswoman for the airport said all issues had been resolved during talks between  management and unions, and a backdated pay increase agreed.

The unions said the new pay deal would let workers “look to the future.”

The new pay deal will see the relevant airport employees get a 4.4% pay increase backdated to   April 1, 2007.

Neil Pakey, the airport's managing director said: “Whilst this has been a difficult period for all  involved in this dispute, I firmly believe that the commitment from both sides to resolve this amicably  has brought us closer together.

“Whilst there has been a difference of opinions over certain issues, the airport has forged a much  closer working relationship with employees which can only be a good thing.

“There is now a real desire to move the business forward.”

In a joint statement, Eddie Parker, GMB Union Organiser and Carol Devereux, UNITE Regional  Organiser added: “The airport company has met all the requests of our membership and the view  of the trade unions is that this dispute is now over completing this year’s pay negotiations.

“As we now look to the future, the unions and our members are committed to working together  with the airport company for the good of the business.”