Bank holiday strike fears at Liverpool John Lennon Airport

Liverpool John Lennon Airport could be hit by August Bank Holiday strikes, it was revealed today.

The GMB union is to hold a strike ballot which could result in industrial action over the busy holiday period.

The union said today that its members are unhappy with health and safety issues, working practices, pay and what it claims is the company’s breach of the recognition agreement.

GMB officials are undertaking industrial action ballots for around 200 members working on the Swissport easyJet contract and Swissport Mainline.

Both ballots finish on August 7, and, if successful, industrial action will take place on August Bank Holiday weekend.

GMB organiser Eddie Parker said: “Our members working at Liverpool’s John Lennon are unhappy with health and safety issues, working practices, pay and the company’s breach of the recognition agreement.

“Despite numerous attempts at constructive discussions, our relationship with the company is fundamentally broken

“The last thing our members want to do is go on strike – and it is not too late for the company to get round the table and thrash out a deal.”

Last month the airport said it expects to handle around 725,000 passengers who are due to pass through the airport over the six weeks of school holidays.

LJLA bosses said this is likely to be one of their busiest Summers in recent years, with direct flights operating to even more destinations.

An airport spokesman said it would respond after the union’s ballot has taken place.

A Swissport spokesperson said: “Consultations regarding employee pay are ongoing and we are making progress and are hopeful of reaching a resolution shortly.

“Swissport remains committed to resolving this matter to protect the interests of our customers, airline passengers and employees.”