Manchester Airport Workers to Vote on Strike Amid Pay Dispute
Workers at Manchester Airport are preparing to vote on potential strike action due to a pay dispute with Manchester Airports Group (MAG). The situation escalated after the union Unite formally registered the trade dispute, indicating a possibility of industrial action if negotiations do not yield a satisfactory agreement.
Key Details of the Pay Dispute
The dispute primarily revolves around dissatisfaction with a pay offer for 2025/26, which Unite members overwhelming rejected. A consultative ballot concluded recently, showing substantial support for the idea of industrial action among employees.
- Union: Unite
- Employer: Manchester Airports Group (MAG)
- Negotiation Status: Ongoing
- Vote on Strike Action: Expected soon
Roles Affected by the Dispute
A variety of roles at the airport are impacted by this dispute, including:
- Bus drivers
- Security staff
- Traffic marshals
- Firefighters
- Engineering staff
- Car park personnel
The specific number of union members who participated in the recent vote has not been disclosed, but it is understood that the response indicated strong support for action.
Management’s Response
In response to the situation, MAG emphasized their commitment to dialogue with employees. They stated their pay offer exceeds the Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation over a two-year period, anticipating that this agreement would provide workers with financial stability.
However, airport staff claimed that employees at MAG’s Stansted Airport received a better pay deal, creating further frustration among Manchester staff. An anonymous worker mentioned that many employees across different departments express dissatisfaction with the current pay proposal.
Call for Job Security
Besides pay, workers are also concerned about job security and employment protection agreements. Unite criticized MAG for not offering adequate job protection, contrasting it with agreements at Stansted Airport.
Unite’s spokesperson highlighted the urgency of the situation, urging MAG to reconsider its stance and to return to negotiations with a fairer offer. The union advocates for improved employment conditions alongside competitive pay.
Next Steps
Unite is in the process of verifying membership details in anticipation of the upcoming ballot on strike action. If strike action is deemed necessary, it will need to be communicated to MAG through proper channels.
Further developments will be monitored closely as discussions continue between airport management and union representatives, with both waiting to see if an agreement can be reached to avert industrial action.
