Marie Moloney (Labour) | Oireachtas source

I want to condemn the actions of Aer Lingus in withdrawing the staff concession of standby flights from the cabin crew who participated in a one-day strike action last week. A worker has a democratic right to strike and nobody should take it away. The staff concession was cost-neutral to Aer Lingus, because staff members do not get on a particular flight but remain on standby until a seat becomes available and then pay the taxes and fees. Therefore, the concession did not cost the company anything. As a matter of fact, Aer Lingus is punishing people for exercising their democratic right and has pandered to the request made by Ryanair to remove the concession. Aer Lingus is a disgrace to do this to its staff.

I know about the situation experienced by staff. I have been married to a shift worker for 34 years and, therefore, I know how important it is to know one's work roster in order to organise childminding, babysitting and the collection of children and to plan for a day away or a holiday. One cannot plan for anything if one has erratic rosters and does not know when one is needed for work. The situation is an absolute disgrace. I want the Minister concerned to come here for a debate on the matter.