Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 6 April 2004
326 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Transport the progress which has been made in his discussions with the trade unions in Aer Rianta regarding the protection of the tenure and conditions of employment of its workers in the context of the three new independent airport authorities which he proposes; and if his commitment deals with the contingency that one of the airports might experience poorer trading conditions than he envisages. [10610/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will be aware, I have conveyed assurances and clarifications on several occasions to ICTU and the trade unions in Aer Rianta in respect of the protection of the current tenure and terms and conditions of employment of Aer Rianta workers on transfer to the three new independent airport authorities when established. Broad financial projections for each of the three airports are currently being finalised and, when this work is completed, I have already confirmed my willingness to share key financial information with the unions in the context of the current engagement process, which is being facilitated by the Labour Relations Commission, before legislation is finalised. In due course, I look forward to a resumption of this engagement process at which issues of concern to Aer Rianta workers can be discussed further.
Any commercial company, whether in the public or private sector, can encounter difficult trading conditions from time to time. I believe that each of the individual State airports, under new visionary leadership, will respond effectively to the challenges of a rapidly changing aviation environment. I have already announced the boards designate for Dublin and Shannon Airports which bring together people of the highest calibre and combine considerable international and national aviation expertise with proven financial and business acumen. I will announce the full membership of the new Cork Airport board designate shortly. When formally established, I am confident that these new autonomous boards will devise the necessary strategies and plans to promote and develop the airports and, together with management and staff, meet the requirements of airlines and passengers as well as assisting in the economic and tourist based development of their catchment areas.
