THE Dublin Airport Authority is to shed 275 permanent jobs and a further 100 temporary posts under a cost-cutting plan that has been agreed by its largest union, SIPTU. SIPTU members working for the DAA voted by a two to one margin to support the socalled Cost Recovery Programme, which was agreed last week after months of discussions. Under the programme, the union has accepted the loss of 275 permanent and 100 temporary jobs at Dublin, Cork and Shannon airports and a pay freeze for remaining staff until 2011. The programme was agreed after it emerged last year that the DAA was facing losses of € 55 million, a figure that has since risen to more than € 70 million. According to the union, the agreement also includes an Employee Recovery Investment Contribution (ERIC) scheme which will be introduced as an alternative to pay cuts with effect from February 1st, 2010. Under the scheme, employees will invest a percentage of their earnings and will recoup the monies after three years or when the company is restored to profitability The agreement also includes a Voluntary Severance Scheme while the union will enter discussions with the company on the pay, terms and conditions which will apply to new staff recruited by the DAA. SIPTU says a € 1m once-off fund will be set aside and will be paid out to participating staff if the agreed cost recovery target is met. An Internal Disputes Tribunal will also be established, which will comprise of one senior trade union official, one senior manager and an independent chairperson, to be agreed. The purpose of the tribunal is to adjudicate on any disputes between the parties regarding the CRP. According to SIPTU organiser, Dermot O'Loughlin, the cost recovery programme was accepted by 1,121 to 541 votes in a ballot of members at the three airports. He said: 'I welcome this decision by SIPTU members at the DAA. We sincerely believe these proposals have the potential to provide sustainable quality jobs. In addition, they provide a realistic platform to ensure that staff are favourably positioned for all future challenges.'

- John MANNING