Unite the union has confirmed that planned strikes among security staff at Aberdeen Airport have been suspended after a new pay deal was presented on Friday evening. The first day of industrial action, scheduled for Monday, will no longer go ahead as a show of goodwill while members consider the improved offer from ICTS, the security contractor.
Background of the Dispute
The union had earlier announced 14 days of industrial action among staff working for ICTS at the airport, warning of potential disruption. The strikes were planned to begin on Monday, but on Friday night ICTS said a deal had been reached. Unite industrial officer Paula Buchan stated: “Unite has agreed to postpone industrial action until our members vote on a new improved pay offer made by ICTS. This offer should have been made available earlier rather than the last minute. Our members have shown determination throughout this dispute and the improved offer has only come about because they have stood firm and refused to back down.”
Response from ICTS and Airport
An ICTS spokesman said: “We’re pleased to confirm that an agreement with our colleagues working within hold baggage screening at Aberdeen airport has been reached. We have been informed that the proposed industrial action will now not take place.” Earlier, a spokesperson for Aberdeen International Airport had said: “We have engaged with ICTS and robust contingency measures will be in place, with no impact expected, but we strongly urge everyone involved to continue working towards a constructive resolution.”
