Strike action averted as ground staff at Stansted accept bumper pay offer
Blue Handling ground workers at Stansted have accepted a bumper pay deal just hours before receiving an industrial action ballot paper.
Blue Handling ground workers at Stansted have accepted a bumper pay deal just hours before receiving an industrial action ballot paper.
If the strike action had gone ahead Ryanair’s flights from Stansted would have been severely disrupted during the schools’ half-term break in October.
After long negotiations and with strike action imminent, management at Blue Handling and Ryanair put forward a better offer to GMB members.
On Monday the 25th of September, the ballot revealed a 94.6 per cent turnout, 65 per cent of members voted to accept the offer comprising 9 per cent for 2023, 4 per cent in 2024, and 4 per cent in 2025 with an agreement to renegotiate in 2025 if the offer falls below inflation. An additional allowance of £600 unconsolidated, will be paid in two payments.
Daren Parmenter, GMB London Region Organiser said:
“The work our members do at Stansted for Ryaniar is essential, for many it’s labour-intensive and for others in passenger-facing roles it can often be challenging. This pay offer helps to recognise their worth and commitment, especially during the current time when it is difficult for many to manage essential living costs.
“The outcome is due to the determination and patience of our reps and members. Our members were reluctantly prepared to take strike action for better pay, realising it would have ruined the travel plans for many getting away for the half-term break.
“I hope that what has been achieved at Stansted sends a strong message of encouragement to other workers who question their rate of pay. Stand strong together and take the challenge, demand better and with GMB’s help you can win”.
Contact: Daren Parmenter, GMB London Region Organiser 077 2579 1833
