Security guards at Schiphol Airport will hold short work stoppages and carry out go-slow actions in the coming weeks, trade unions CNV and FNV have announced.
According to CNV negotiator André Quist, the actions could lead to slightly longer queues as the busy summer travel period comes to an end.
The unions had previously issued an ultimatum, but say Schiphol and the airport’s three security companies have not made concrete commitments to immediately reduce the high workload faced by security staff. CNV warned that longer strikes could follow if improvements are not introduced.
The dates of the work stoppages and go-slow actions will only be announced a few hours in advance.
“Absolutely no one wants industrial action at Schiphol. But if employers do not take a single concrete step against the extremely high workload, even after a crystal-clear ultimatum, they leave our members no other choice,” Quist said.
Longer break
Earlier this year, Schiphol reduced the number of security providers at the airport from five to three. The move was intended to improve oversight of service delivery. However, the unions say security staff have experienced major problems since the change.
According to CNV and FNV, the high workload has contributed to increased absenteeism. This has put even more pressure on the security guards who remain at work. The unions fear this could lead to a downward spiral.
“If employers continue to postpone improvements, the responsibility for the consequences lies with Schiphol and the security companies. The limit has truly been reached for the security guards,” Quist said.
The unions said previous talks with Schiphol and the security firms had produced insufficient results. The unions are calling for longer breaks for security guards. They also want staff to get two consecutive days off after five working days. Leave requests should also be approved more often..
Limit impact
Schiphol said it is “regrettable” that the unions have decided to take industrial action and stressed that it takes security staff’s concerns “seriously”.
“Schiphol and the security companies remain committed to improvements for security staff and remain fully prepared to continue dialogue with the unions on this matter,” a spokesperson said.
The airport added that it is doing everything possible to minimise disruption for travellers. Schiphol said it is already working with the security companies on concrete improvements. These measures address five of the unions’ eight demands.
@anp | NEWS BRAINPORT
