The Luxembourg Confederation of Christian Trade Unions (LCGB), the Independent Confederation of Luxembourg Trade Unions (OGBL), and the Luxembourg Neutral Trade Union (NGL-SNEP) have rallied Cargocenter employees to stage a protest picket on Friday morning.
The move comes in the wake of Luxair’s announcement in early August regarding its withdrawal from Cargocenter operations. The decision has left approximately 1,200 employees concerned about their job security and feeling unsupported by current management. The trade unions express disappointment over Luxair’s exit and apprehension regarding potential loss of specific social benefits.
According to the trade unions, Luxair no longer seems to want to look after the Cargocenter employees, and management does not seem to care what happens to them, as Paul de Araujo of LCGB points out. The trade unions’ primary objective is to safeguard the benefits outlined in Luxair’s collective bargaining agreement and gain recognition for the staff’s professional commitment over the past few years.
In their pursuit of a resolution, the trade unions have engaged in multiple discussions with airline representatives, with further meetings planned. Employees are demanding guarantees from management.
The public tender process is scheduled to conclude at the end of October, with Luxair no longer part of the decision-making process. Currently, three potential contenders, including Cargolux, have expressed interest in acquiring the operation.
Police had already warned of possible traffic disruptions around Findel Airport on Thursday and these warnings eventually became a reality on Friday morning. Shortly after 9am, reports confirmed traffic disruptions as demonstrators obstructed roadways, particularly the roundabout in front of the airport. In some areas, the congestion extended to the motorway. Police officers and the police helicopter were despatched to address the situation.
Around 150 demonstrators occupied the roundabout to draw attention to their situation. Delays from a protest march originating at the Ibis Hotel toward Findel caused LCGB representative Paul de Araujo’s scheduled speech at 9.15am to start later than planned.
