Several Antigua-based ground staff, represented by the Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU), walked off the job this morning.
In a Press release, corporate communications manager Desmond Brown said LIAT had not been notified of the issues prior to the work stoppage.
However, he said, the airline’s flight schedule had not been affected and the company remained committed to serving its customers.
Brown said in the statement: “LIAT met with the ABWU four days ago on Friday, June 24, to discuss the closure of the City Ticketing Offices. Those discussions were amicable and resulted in reasonable settlements for both sides. It is therefore with some disappointment that the company views today’s action.”
He continued, “LIAT is committed to the maintenance of good industrial relations with all its unions and has already commenced a new round of negotiations for new contract agreements.”
The corporate communications manager said that LIAT was unable to meet the huge demands for wage increases by its workers but had proposed increases which were in line with the current financial and economic conditions facing both the company and the region at large.
Brown said LIAT looked forward to the return to the negotiating table and a commitment to exhaust all discussions and grievance procedures before seeking external assistance. (PR)
