SIPTU Result On Aer Lingus Strike Ballot Due

The results of SIPTU's ballot on industrial action in a row over job cuts at Aer Lingus are due later today.

Voluntary severance and early retirement schemes have been offered to Aer Lingus employees as the airline attempts to cut almost 1,300 jobs through out-sourcing.

Speaking on Thursday, SIPTU National Industrial Secretary Gerry McCormack said: "The company deadline for introducing its cuts plan from December 1 is fast approaching.

"Unless some new process is put in place to replace the one from which the company walked away last week, we face major disruption in the aviation sector in the run-up to Christmas."

Aer Lingus is due to issue a financial statement next week and, according to reports, the company is expected to confirm huge losses for this year.

The Impact trade union has previously described the proposal as "severe and draconian" and said it was consulting with members on their reaction.

Airline Chief Executive, Dermot Mannion said the cuts were necessary in the current circumstances to ensure the airlines' continued viability.

However, it has emerged today that passenger numbers are actually on the up at Aer Lingus.

The airline has reported a 3.8% increase in October compared to the same month last year.

The figures represent a 6.3% increase in passengers on short haul flights but are counterpointed by an 11.4% fall in passengers on long haul.

Meanwhile, British Airways has announced a 91.6% drop in its half year profits in a period which has been described as "one of the bleakest on record".

Pre-tax profits of £52 million plummeted from £616 million last year in the six months to September 30.

The Heathrow-based airline revealed the massive drops were a result of the surge in oil prices.

See: Belfast To Soar Above Aer Lingus Strike

See: BA Announces Profits Slump During 'Bleakest' Six Months

(KMcA)(BMcC)