The Clare Champion Clare news, sport, entertainment and local notes
SHANNON-based Aer Lingus cabin crew will remain laid off from work despite expectations of a return to work in early June.
Fórsa trade union has confirmed that a roster published today shows cabin crew will remain laid off until at least June 20. The union said the extended layoff is another devastating blow for staff and for the region.
Fórsa official Ashley Connolly said the union is calling on Aer Lingus to provide a commitment to Shannon base and to those who work there: “Uncertainty remains over the recovery and future of aviation, despite signs of hope as more people are vaccinated against Covid-19. Slowly but surely we are seeing roadmaps to reopening, which is encouraging after more than a year of restrictions, but there is no equivalent plan for aviation, an industry that supports hundreds of thousands of jobs in Ireland.
“The news today from Shannon reveals the continuing vulnerability of the industry and the economy of the Shannon region, which is why we need to hear a solid commitment form Aer Lingus at this critical time. The pandemic has struck a devastating blow to every part of the industry, and the future of the industry remains uncertain.
“Fórsa has sounded its warning over the industry for more than a year now, but the necessary state interventions to protect the future of Irish aviation haven’t materialised.
“We continue to advocate for solutions based on social dialogue, and the union has backed campaigns seeking to ensure the future survival of this key industry.
“While there are welcome signs of hope elsewhere in the economy, there is little to draw comfort from on aviation’s future both immediate and long-term. All stakeholders, including the Government and industries relying on aviation, need to take on the challenge of planning a sustainable future,” she said.
Fórsa has previously warned that thousands of jobs dependent on aviation could be lost permanently unless the Government acts to support the sector though a second summer of inactivity caused by Covid-related travel restrictions.
Owen Ryan
Owen Ryan has been a journalist with the Clare Champion since 2007, having previously worked for a number of other regional titles in Limerick, Galway and Cork.
