AER LINGUS cabin crew have voted by a large majority to accept a peace formula to their dispute over hotel accommodation in New York. As a result the threat to Aer Lingus flight schedules from industrial action has ended.
The dispute flared up after Aer Lingus cabin crew members were moved to the Lucerne hotel in Manhattan. They expressed fears about security, lack of room service and general facilities.
Under the peace formula the Lucerne hotel will continue to be used by Aer Lingus, pending a review of overnight accommodation for cabin crews.
SIPTU served strike notice for midnight on February 5th. Following a last minute intervention by the Labour Relations Commission, the strike was deferred.
The 800 crew members have now voted to accept new terms. These provide criteria and procedures to be followed in selecting future accommodation for Aer Lingus crews. The LRC is to assist the union and management in finding ways to improve working relations.
Both sides have welcomed the outcome of the ballot.