The unions that represent cabin crew at Brussels Airlines have issued a strike notice. The strike that covers an indefinite period has been issued as the unions claim that the airline is failing to respect several of the terms contained in the collective labour agreement agreed by management and the unions that represent Brussels Airlines’ staff. The news that a strike notice has been issued was released by the Francophone Christian trade union CNE on Friday.
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Unions at Brussels Airlines warn of disruption over Christmas
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The strike notice was issued on Thursday and covers an indefinite period from 23 November. CNE cites the example of the airline failing to consult union representatives before publishing shift rosters as one example of Brussels Airline’s failure to respect the collective labour agreement.
Another example are changes management has made to the conditions a member of staff must meet before they are considered for a position as Chief Steward.
Pay
The unions also say that it is unacceptable that a wage agreement made at the height of the coronavirus crisis in 2020 is still applicable. In the meantime the airline’s financial position has improved and 2023 was it most profitable summer ever. Jolinde Defieuw of the Christian trade union ACV Puls told journalists that "There is a great deal of frustration among staff. Pressure of work and a lack of rest remain, while at the same time complaints are minimalised”.
Christmas holidays
It is as yet unclear when a strike will take place. However, the unions say that their members are aiming to take actions during the Christmas holidays.
They understand that the threat of strike action over Christmas will not be welcomed by passengers. "A strike over Christmas is an option. This isn’t nice for passengers. However, it isn’t the fault of staff, but rather the fault of the employer. Sadly, sometimes this is the only option”, Ms Defieuw said.