Speaking this afternoon, Sinn Féin spokesperson on enterprise, trade, and employment, Louise O’Reilly TD, said Aer Lingus needs to re-engage with the Irish Airline Pilots’ Association and negotiate a deal which avoids industrial action.

Teachta O’Reilly said:

“The decision of Aer Lingus pilots, who are members of the Irish Airline Pilots’ Association (IALPA), to ballot for industrial action did not come out of the blue.

“The pilots are frustrated with the failure of the airline to deliver improvements to pay and conditions comparable with their colleagues in British Airways and Lufthansa.

“A ballot for industrial action which resulted in 99 percent of workers supporting strike action, from turnout of 89 percent, should be a wake-up call for Aer Lingus to return to the negotiating table.

“Instead, the airline has clutched at straws and tried to blame IALPA for using an electronic ballot.

“Aer Lingus should also cease using passengers as a pawn in efforts to colour public opinion against the workers who only want comparable treatment with their colleagues.

“Such a response from Aer Lingus only serves to waste valuable time which should be used to negotiate an agreement with the pilots.

“I would call on Aer Lingus to engage in meaningful and constructive discussions with IALPA so a deal can be reached, and industrial action which would disrupt passengers during the busiest travel time of the year avoided.

“Given the serious nature of the situation the Minister for Enterprise and the Minister for Transport should involve themselves in a mediatory capacity to ensure a positive resolution is found.”