We have now had two more days of consultation, but unfortunately there is little news to report. After four days of talks, we unfortunately have to conclude that there are still few leads to reach a deal.
Response KLM
Last Monday, KLM first responded to our proposals, and that response was disappointing. On all the proposals that cost KLM money, the answer was NO. In addition, KLM is sticking to its own proposals around increasing flexibility. In addition, it is becoming increasingly clear that KLM wants to minimize the elderly policy for a significant portion of the ground staff and modernize Schedule 15 (Excess Policy) in a way that significantly reduces the value of this policy.
Our opinion
The conclusion after another two days of negotiations is that we will not come to an agreement this way. In fact, at the basic level we do not agree. We understand that a better result is needed to continue paying for the necessary investments (mainly in the fleet). Therefore, many of the measures from Back on Track – although still often unclear – we understand. For example, we are not at all opposed to increasing KLM’s earning capacity or taking a critical look at necessary investments. What we do not understand, however, is why ground employees should contribute, through cuts in their terms of employment, to a problem they did not cause (such as not being able to use full capacity due to the shortage of pilots).
In our opinion, this is not necessary at all. Based on KLM’s own analysis of KLM’s figures, we have come to the conclusion that even with a “normal” and market-based collective bargaining agreement for ground staff (without a “zero line” and/or other austerity measures) KLM can achieve a much better result.
Next consultation dates
Two more negotiation days are scheduled next Thursday and Friday. This will give all parties at the negotiating table time to think again, including KLM.
Your opinion sought on flexible rosters.
The opinion of members is very important to The Union. In the previous info we already indicated that we would hold another poll with a number of concrete questions about KLM’s proposed flexibility in rosters at Grond. We would appreciate it if you – if you work in shifts – participate in this, so that we can let KLM know what you think about this. That’s what this is ultimately about.
Fill in the poll until next Tuesday, Dec. 10!
Will you also fill out the poll? You can do so here.
So much for this post again. Do you have questions or want to let us know what you think of the situation so far? Then send a message to huug.brinkers@unie.nl.
Best regards,
also on behalf of the delegation members,
Huug Brinkers
Advocacy Officer
