Public Service Union gives AIA management two weeks to pay up

The Public Service Union (PSU) has put the management of the Argyle International Airport (AIA) on notice that if outstanding payments are not settled by mid-April, industrial action will follow.

The PSU, in a release, explained that the union met with aggrieved members on Friday March 22, 2024 in regards to outstanding retroactive component of the increment for 2019. The increment which amounted to 1.5% was paid January, 2023 and therefore it was expected that the retroactive component for the years 2019,2020,2021, and 2022 will be paid.

The PSU said that numerous letters were sent to AIA management in addition to holding numerous meetings over a period of four years, from as far back as October 29, 2020.

The payment of increments is in accordance to the AIA Employee Policy Manual section 6 – Compensation Policies – subsection 6.5- Increments which stated “Wage/Salary Increments will be paid to employees’ subject to satisfactory performance under the AIA’s performance review program.” However, to date the outstanding retroactive payments has not been settled.

During this period the Union has compromised, and our members have been very patient, as we tried to maintain a cordial relationship with the organization. However, after tirelessly and unsuccessfully trying to get this matter resolved the Union have decided to serve AIA notice that they have until April 12, 2024 to settle the outstanding payments, that is, the retroactive component of the increments.

“If the outstanding payments are not settled by the April 12, 2024 the PSU will initiate industrial action against the AIA on a Monday or Wednesday on a date of our choosing. This action will continue until this grievously outstanding matter is settled.”

The PSU said they recognize the critical service that the airport provides and would prefer that industrial action not be taken

“However, the management at AIA has left us no choice. To this end, management has two weeks from Monday, March 25, 2024, to make those payments to workers.”