The prospect of strikes by Unite workers employed at dnata have been averted following extensive negotiations.

 

Major ballot

 

Over 700 Unite members, who provide onboard food for airlines across the UK, were being balloted for industrial action after the company sought to change their terms and conditions without consultation.

 

The dispute would have affected most of the major airlines during the Christmas period.

 

As a result of the negotiations and once the company understood the strength of the workers feelings, it was agreed to close down the working groups it had unilaterally formed during the dispute. Dnata has now agreed to work in full consultation with Unite about any potential changes.

 

Workers stand up and be counted

 

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Congratulations to our members who were prepared to stand up and be counted and were not prepared to have their conditions downgraded.

 

“Unite’s commitment to defending its members jobs, pay and conditions is total.”

 

Line in the sand drawn

 

Unite national officer for civil aviation Balvinder Bir said: “Our members have drawn a clear line in the sand and made it clear to dnata that they will never accept unilateral attacks on their conditions.

 

“Unite will now be entering into detailed negotiations with the company to ensure that dnata’s workers are fairly treated going forward.”

 

ENDS

 

Notes to editors:

 

Airlines braced for foodless fights as catering workers at eight UK airports ballot for strikes

 

For media enquiries ONLY please contact Unite senior communications advisor Barckley Sumner on 07802 329235.

 

Email: barckley.sumner@unitetheunion.org

 

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