Qantas Statement On Engineer's Industrial Action

Qantas Statement on Engineers' Industrial Action

SYDNEY, 13 November 2009: Qantas said today that industrial action planned by Professional Engineers from this evening would not have any impact on airline operations.

Qantas Group Executive Government and Corporate Affairs, Mr David Epstein, said the airline had continued to negotiate with the Association of Professional Engineers, Scientists and Managers Australia (APESMA) during the week on the latest Enterprise Bargaining Agreement.

The union plans to commence protected industrial action at 5pm this evening in the form of work bans that include work outside normal hours.

"We remain disappointed that the union is taking this unnecessary action," Mr Epstein said.

"The contribution our Professional Engineers make to our operations is highly valued, but APESMA's current claim remains at nearly 30 per cent over three years and is still unreasonable and unsustainable.

"We have continued to negotiate in good faith, including during the week, and are absolutely committed to finding common ground."

Mr Epstein said Qantas had contingency plans in place once the action had commenced.

"There will not be any disruption to our operations and I can assure our customers that they can travel with confidence," he said.

"Aircraft will not be grounded and safety will, as always, remain our top priority."

Qantas employs approximately 190 Professional Engineers in an engineering workforce of around 5,500 people.

Issued by Qantas Corporate Communication (Q3976)
Media Enquiries: Simon Rushton T: 02 9691 3742

SOURCE: Qantas