Aer Lingus says its services were not seriously affected by a strike of 400 catering staff at Dublin Airport yesterday. The staff have rejected a Labour Court award which leaves them with significantly lower pay increases than clerical staff.
Caterers picketed the main approaches to the airport in force and caused considerable delays to traffic. Many Dublin Bus drivers and drivers of vehicles bringing supplies to the airport refused to pass pickets, but most taxi drivers brought passengers to the terminal.
A two-hour march by caterers through the airport complex caused considerable disruption.
SIPTU negotiator Mr Dermot O'Loughlin once more called on the company to improve its pay offer. He thanked the public for their patience and support during the 24-hour stoppage.
He said the vast majority of Aer Lingus catering staff started at £220 per week and must wait 22 years to reach the top of the scale at £320. Most were women and many had to pay childcare costs.
The company's director of corporate affairs, Mr Dan Loughrey, said flight delays yesterday had been due to fog in London and were similar to those experienced by other airlines. Although some cleaners and clerical staff supported the pickets, he said these were insufficient to affect operations.
He said customers could apply for refunds if they wished and each case would be assessed on its merits.