The three unions that represent staff at the Belgian air traffic control service Skeyes have issued a strike notice. The strike notice has been issued due to discontent among air traffic controllers at Skeyes about a new scheduling system. The unions warn that if no solution to address their grievances is found before 5 October strikes may take place that would affect all or some of Belgium’s airspace.
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Air traffic control unions issue strike notice
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The Christian Trade Union ACV Transcom says that the liberal and socialist trade unions entered into an agreement with Skeyes in 2019 to introduce a new shift planning mechanism. The new system was to have been introduced for a trial period of one year after which it would be assessed. However, as a result of the coronavirus crisis, the trial period lasted longer.
The trial period eventually came to an end at the start of this year. Nevertheless, "Skeyes continues to apply the system, without taking into account the old planning rules, such as publishing the work schedules at least one month before the start of the roster. This practice is completely illegal" Kurt Callaerts of the Christian trade union said in a press release.
Skeyes said that it was prepared to discuss any issues and a working party on the planning system was set up. However, the Christian trade union says that the management is using the working party to waste time and avoid tackling the issue.
The union also expresses concern about staff shortages. "If you know that there are too few staff, you can better work together to find a solution rather than provoking and threatening employees. We are always open to discussion and dialogue, but real dialogue, respect for the agreements made and respect for the staff ", said Mr Callaerts said.