Dublin-based Emerald Airlines has been warned by a pilot union that it may ballot its members for industrial action if the carrier’s management does not agree to negotiate a collective agreement with the union.
But the airline has hit out at the union for threatening the ballot in the run up to the busy summer season.
In a letter to its members, the Irish Airline Pilots’ Association (IALPA) said: “As you know, IALPA has tried to engage with Emerald Airlines management on pilot pay, pension, terms and conditions of employment.
“Crucially, we have not received from management a positive response to our request for a meeting to negotiate.”
Emerald has also insisted that it has been constructively dealing directly with its pilots and has already improved their terms and conditions, including pay.
The airline’s CEO Keith Butler said the carrier is already engaged in direct dialogue and negotiations with its staff through its Employee Representative Group, resulting in “significant improvements” in pay and conditions.
“This development from IALPA, coming as we approach a busy summer season, is extremely disappointing and unnecessary.
“We maintain an active and healthy dialogue directly with all of our employees including pilot employee representatives.
“We are committed to providing a positive, progressive, and healthy work environment for everyone working at Emerald Airlines.”
