Pilot seeks injunction against Ryanair

A RYANAIR pilot who has consistently advocated the rights of pilots has brought a legal challenge alleging “bad faith” and dishonesty by Ryanair in bringing more disciplinary proceedings against him.

Capt John Goss, who four years ago settled an action against Ryanair, is seeking an injunction halting disciplinary proceedings against him. He claims Ryanair’s actions represent a threat to his employment on which he and his family are financially dependent.

Capt Goss is a member of the Irish Association of Airline Pilots. Ryanair has denied the disciplinary proceedings are related to his union activities.

Capt Goss of Yellow Walls Road, Malahide, Co Dublin, wants orders restraining the airline continuing with any disciplinary procedure or dismissal action against him. On the application of Roddy Horan SC, for Capt Goss, Mr Justice Michael Hanna yesterday adjourned the case for mention in two weeks.

Capt Goss says he had on June 8th, 2005, entered into terms of settlement with Ryanair of proceedings instituted by him as a result of a purported disciplinary procedure conducted by the airline against him in an improper and unfair manner. He said the procedures were bogus and contrived and embarked on for the purpose of securing the termination of his employment.

Ryanair says Capt Goss has been involved in five sets of proceedings against it for the purpose, it claims, of undermining the airline’s relationship with its employees.