Cabin crew directly employed by Stobart Air in the Republic of Ireland have voted unanimously for industrial action over the airline’s refusal to recognise Fórsa and negotiate with the union on staff pay and working conditions.
The result of the ballot was 100% in favour of industrial action, based on a return of 84% of ballot papers issued. The ballot concluded today (Wednesday 10th April).
The result of the ballot was 100% in favour of industrial action.
Fórsa official Ashley Connolly said the result gives the union a very clear mandate from its members working in Stobart Air, and the union’s disputes committee would now consider its next steps.
“Management’s refusal to do business in the usual way has left its staff feeling they have no choice but to consider industrial action.
“The ballot gives the union a legal mandate for industrial action if the company takes disciplinary action against any crew member because they have joined the union, or because they participate in an industrial dispute,” she said.
Fórsa said a recent pay proposal in the non-union company fell short of recent airline industry norms, and was rejected by cabin crew by a margin of more than two-to-one of those who voted.
The ballot gives the union a legal mandate for industrial action if the company takes disciplinary action against any crew member because they have joined the union, or because they participate in an industrial dispute.
Following a number of information meetings hosted by Fórsa for Irish-based Stobart crew, Ms Connolly said staff support for the union to negotiate on their behalf was overwhelming.
The union also referred the dispute to the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC), which subsequently invited the company to talks. The airline refused the offer.
Related: Stobart Air cabin crew ballot for industrial action (02.04.19)