Tourism Minister Edward Zammit Lewis said that Airline Pilots Association’s decision to protest by means of a dress down action is “disproportionate and dangerous”. In comments to The Malta Independent the minister said “ALPA are effectively holding the airline and the tourism industry to ransom by threatening industrial action at the peak of summer and during the most sensitive part of our negotiations with our strategic partner.”
He said this is in reaction to the ongoing dress down protest initiated by ALPA as a form of industrial action. They also warned that this action will be stepped up if claims for improved conditions are not met. Pilots are currently refusing to wear their suit jackets and caps while on duty to protest delays in collective agreement negotiations.
The negotiations regarding collective agreements and Air Malta have been pushed back due to ongoing talks between Alitalia and the Maltese airline. Alitalia signed an MOU with Air Malta, which is the first step towards the Italian airline purchasing 49% in Air Malta.
“Industrial action at this time of the year will inflict irreparable damage to the hundreds of businesses that operate in the tourism industry and to the airline's finances,” Dr Zammit Lewis said adding that he believes that the pilots “should return to the negotiating table, and common sense should prevail.”
Meanwhile the minister also spoke about the Alitalia dealings which are still ongoing despite the company reporting half a million euro per day in losses. In reply to questions from this newsroom, Dr Zammit Lewis said that “'Talks between the two parties are still ongoing since government’s priority is to secure the best possible deal which assures a sustainable solution for Air Malta.”
TMI asked whether the outlook is a positive one, considering all the troubles facing Alitalia which is only still trudging along because of Etihad’s 49% stake. The minister replied that “the next step is a thorough analysis of the proposed business plan.”
“After this is done a decision will be taken and communicated,” adding that “this government will not shy away from the Air Malta issue and will ensure that the national airline's long term viability is guaranteed.”
ALPA position