According to FNV, the negotiations between the trade union and KLM about a new collective agreement are completely stuck. The trade union focuses, among other things, on a wage increase and a better arrangement for people with physically heavy work. KLM, however, keeps the leg stiff.
“This while the top has received a big bonus,” the FNV told the ANP. The strike would have major consequences for air traffic at Schiphol. The ground staff from KLM ensure, among other things, that luggage is loaded in aircraft, which will not happen if there is a strike.
‘Many days of nuisance’
According to the ANP, KLM requested the trade unions by letter earlier this week not to stop. Society warned that a strike would cause ‘many days of nuisance, cancellations and extra costs that can rise in the tens of millions of euros’.
According to FNV director John van Dorland, KLM has had time long enough. “This is not a game. If the management [van KLM, red.] Thinks this is overwent, she is mistaken. It is simple: nothing flies without soil staff. “According to the union, about 13,000 employees fall under the collective labor agreement.
KLM steps to the right
KLM tries to prevent the strike through summary proceedings. According to the ANP, the management is disappointed that FNV and CNV want to stop, while the conversations about the collective agreement would still be going on.
KLM emphasizes that there is no room for extra wage increases, given the financial situation of society. “Actions do not contribute to a solution, but touch our colleagues who want to work, our travelers who are not a party to the discussion and they are harmful to our company. Especially in the difficult financial position in which KLM is located,” said HR director Miriam Kartman of KLM.