On 17 September 2020 the second meeting between Unions, Luxair, Cargolux, Luxairport and government representatives, referred to as “Tripartite pour le secteur de l ´aviation” took place. The Minister for Transport, François Bausch explained that it is the goal of the government to find a solution so that none of the staff would become unemployed. The aim must be to make use of the available social instruments such as early retirement schemes and to socially cushion the necessary cost-cutting measures “in a Luxembourg way“, said Minister Bausch. At the same time, a global plan for the development of aviation in Luxembourg should be defined.
Main topic in the discussions was the situation at Luxair since they are most affected by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. It has been agreed that Luxair management, the representatives of the government and the Unions will collaborate within a working group on possible solutions to address Luxair’s situation. The aim is to secure the jobs and to avoid redundancies.
In respect to Cargolux, the company’s CEO underscored the functioning social dialogue with the Unions and staff representatives in this context. Management and staff representatives are in agreement that the present exceptional financial situation of the company must be preserved to tackle future challenges and that measures, which may weaken Cargolux´ position must be avoided. The CEO further explained that Cargolux is willing to be part of the solution for the Luxembourg aviation sector, but not at the expense of the viability of Cargolux.
We believe, that within the Tripartite it should be possible to find solutions not only to address the present situation of Luxair, but also to make sure that Cargolux will be prepared for future challenges as this will be essential to secure jobs and possible growth in the future. Already available social instruments such as early retirement schemes would not only help in maintaining jobs within Luxembourg’s airline industry but may also be beneficial for Cargolux and its staff.
The next meeting of the Tripartite has been scheduled for 7 October 2020.
