dnata offers to talk with Unite over Christmas strikes
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Talks between dnata and Unite through Acas are expected soon to avert a strike by ground handlers next week, as the Christmas getaway commences.
The ground operator responded to Travel Daily Media’s report yesterday in which Unite members voted in favour of strikes on Tuesday 23 December and Christmas Eve. dnata handles ground handling for several airlines and the industrial action could impact Heathrow and Manchester airports the most.
The row is regarding a pay increase for dnata’s UK staff members. dnata has offered a 2.25% increase in salary and one-off payment of GBP175, but workers are annoyed that supervisors have been given a 4.5% rise.
In a statement the ground handler, which is part of the Emirates Group, said: “dnata has offered an increase in salary of 2.25% backdated to 1 July 2014 and a one-time payment of GBP175. This is a competitive package in excess of UK inflation and on par with, or exceeding the industry average. Following acceptance by the GMB union and based on the result of its own staff survey, dnata has in good faith, agreed to pay this award to its entire staff in the United Kingdom in its December salary, including Unite members.
“Unite has balloted its members who have voted for industrial action. Less than 43% members of Unite actually voted in this ballot and less than 8% of our total workforce voted in favour of industrial action. This minority has accepted the call for industrial action, which is expected to take place from 0400hrs on 23 December to 0500hrs on 25 December.
dnata acquired UK operations in 2009 and has posted a net loss, totalling in more than GBP5 million in the last three years.
The statement continued: “We are committed to turning the business around and our union partners are a key part of this. As a responsible business, we have to make decisions that ensure the long-term viability of the operations and job security for the more than 1,900 people dnata employs. We will continue to offer to meet with Unite and ACAS to reach an agreement that serves the needs of our employees, our customers and the business.”
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