ST GEORGE’S, Grenada – Labour Minister Glynis Roberts today said she is seeking a meeting with officials of the regional airline, LIAT, and the Technical and Allied Workers Union (TAWU) in a bid to bring an end to the industrial dispute that has affected flights in and out of Grenada by the airline.
Roberts said that she had been approached by the Antigua-based airline to intervene in the situation and that a meeting is being planned for tomorrow.
She said the go slow by LIAT workers at the Maurice Bishop International Airport (MBIA) would affect the upcoming Carnival celebrations when airlift into the island is at its highest.
“We always have to look at the bigger picture which is the country so I will continue in my capacity as facilitator to listen to both parties to see how best we can resolve (the matter).”
Today LIAT announced the cancellation of several flights into Grenada as the industrial action entered its third day.
The workers are protesting what the TAWU calls the airline’s foot dragging approach to overtime payments and meal allowances owed since 1983.
Roberts said while she understands the workers’ position sacrifices are being made on all sides.
“I can imagine that they are at the end of their ropes just like the workers who are waiting to be compensated.
“I know the workers want to be on the job they are a bunch of hardworking people…and we have heard that the workers have already shifted from what they are supposed to be compensated to come up to an average figure because they understand that the airline is also struggling financially.”
Roberts said she is hopeful that a solution would be reached at Thursday’s meeting..
“I would hope that something good would happen and that it would be finally resolved.” (CMC)