Heathrow baggage handlers to strike on Friday

http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/sep/09/heathrow-baggage-handlers-to-strike-friday

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Ground handlers at Heathrow airport are to strike on Friday in a dispute over pay.

Unite said more than 500 of its members will walk out for 24 hours in protest at a delay in paying last year's award.

Talks between the union and employers ASIG have broken down.

The strike will run from 00.01am on Friday at terminals one, two and three, involving check-in and baggage handling staff.

Unite said the deal on offer is 5.5% over two years, which the union said was unacceptable, given the "soaring" cost of living.

Regional officer Michelle Braveboy said: "The prospect of chaos for thousands of passengers should concentrate the minds of management and get them around the table again to negotiate a fair settlement.

"While the company was awarded the privilege of being the main ground handler at terminal two and has grown since 2013 by winning many new contracts, they have forgotten the staff who have contributed so greatly to that success.

"We are still negotiating on the 2013 pay award, which should have been paid in July last year, and are now having to negotiate a two-year deal as this year's anniversary date has already passed."