Union Criticises DAA For Seeking A High Court Injunction

SIPTU has criticised the Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) for seeking a High Court injunction to prevent industrial action planned for next Monday instead of engaging in constructive negotiations to resolve the dispute over pensions.

The dispute arises because DAA and Aer Lingus are no longer prepared to honour their obligations to fund the pension scheme. This, in turn, has come about because the Authorities are insisting on compliance with an absurdly ridiculous funding standard for these schemes.

SIPTU Sector Organiser, Dermot O'Loughlin said: "We are disappointed to hear of the High Court proceedings. Our members are frustrated and annoyed at the DAA for adopting tactics that will only serve to aggravate a very difficult and complex situation.

"This pensions crisis did not begin today or yesterday. In fact, SIPTU has been proactively engaged for over two years in trying to find fair and reasonable solutions to these unfortunate circumstances which arise because of the unfair funding standards being imposed on pension funds by the Pensions Regulator."

(CD)