OLECG meets ahead of industrial action

The multi-agency Orkney Local Emergency Co-ordinating Group (OLECG) met today (Friday 29 March) to consider the potential impact of industrial action by air traffic controllers working for Highlands and Islands Airports Limited.

Action short of a strike is due to begin on Monday 1 April, with a day of strike action planned for Friday 26 April.

Chief Inspector Matt Webb, chair of OLECG and Police Scotland’s area commander for Orkney, said: “At this stage it is difficult to say with certainty what impact there will be once the action short of a strike – such as an overtime ban - begins.

“Our aim in meeting today was to ensure that key agencies are prepared for the eventualities and considering contingency plans that may be required over the weeks ahead.

“We have been advised, for instance, that from Monday Kirkwall Airport will operate during normal working hours, but will be unable to stay open longer if flights are running late.

“An important concern is North Ronaldsay’s reliance on the local air service as its main link to the Orkney Mainland. How any disruption to that service could be addressed is under active consideration.”

The meeting heard that:

• Air ambulance and other emergency flights should be unaffected.
• Changes to Orkney Ferries’ timetables for the Outer North Isles are being considered as a way to help reduce the impact of any disruption to the inter-isles air service.
• Loganair has adjusted the times of a small number of flights, mainly the last of the day, on its external routes from Monday onwards by between five and 20 minutes, and advised passengers accordingly.
• The day of strike action will mean no flights in and out of seven HIAL airports, including Kirkwall, on 26 April.

For up to date information visit the HIAL and Loganair websites.