LIAT pilots forego Christmas/New Year strike

On Tuesday 23rd December 2008, a meeting was convened between the Management of LIAT and LIALPA.  On the LIALPA delegation were Capt. Michael Blackburn, Capt. Carl Burke, Capt. Andre Grey, Capt. Patterson Thompson and Mr. Maurice Christian (President Antigua and Barbuda TUC).

Present at the meeting in addition to representatives of the parties were the Hon. Harold Lovell, Minister of Civil Aviation and Tourism of Antigua & Barbuda and Senator Chester Humphreys President General of Grenada Allied Workers Union & Chairman of LIAT’s Regional Trade Union Committee who facilitated the meeting.

The purpose of the meeting was to explore avenues for further dialogue and constructive engagement between the parties.

Following extensive discussions the parties agreed that public statements made on this issue have been unfortunate and have not contributed to an enhanced industrial relations climate.

The parties further agreed in good faith:-
 
1. To pursue the issues in dispute over the next 28 days during which period no industrial action or any other action which may alter the normal operations of the Company will be taken by LIALPA.~~Adz:Right~~

2. Not to ventilate their differences through media releases or other public statements and the Company shall address all matters touching and concerning the current dispute directly to the Chairman or Secretary of LIALPA.

3. To submit to binding arbitration any dispute arising from negotiations for a new collective agreement that is not settled by March 31st, 2009.

4. To accept the mediating role offered by today’s meeting to resolve the matters in contention over the next 28 days.

5. The provisions shall remain in effect for a period of 28 days with effect from Tuesday 23rd December 2008.