easyJet cabin crew in Portugal are gearing up for two significant strikes, with the first one scheduled from October 2 to October 6, and the second from December 19 to December 23. This action is expected to disrupt the airline’s operations, particularly during the bustling Christmas travel season. The crew gathered for an emergency general meeting this week, where they discussed their working conditions and decided on further actions.
A statement from the union SNPVAC revealed that the decision to strike was unanimously approved by the 188 easyJet employees present at the meeting. The union highlighted several grievances, including frequent changes to duty rosters, alleged breaches of the collective labor agreement, and unequal treatment between cabin crew and pilots. Problems with operational planning and undue pressure to work overtime due to staff shortages were also major points of contention.
The union has accused easyJet of keeping Portuguese crew on low wages, which do not adequately reflect the cost of living and the national minimum wage. SNPVAC pointed out that the working conditions have deteriorated significantly, prompting them to conclude that easyJet is not meeting the needs of its employees. In the same statement, the union claimed that easyJet is allowing it to operate flights that would otherwise be canceled, undermining the right to strike effectively.
The timing of the October strike coincides with the long weekend around Portugal’s Republic Day public holiday on October 5, which is a Monday this year. The December strike will last until just two days before Christmas, a time when many travelers will be heading home for the festivities or traveling for leisure. The situation is tense, and many are left wondering how it will all unfold in the coming months. Will easyJet address these grievances before the strikes take place?
Kaynak: Orijinal Haber