“Given the lack of progress so far in negotiations to end the strike, if it happens it will certainly lead to serious restrictions at national airports, especially in Porto and Lisbon, the effects of which are currently completely unpredictable,” Stamp warned in a press release.
However, the union confirmed that there would be delays and “many flight cancellations” to all destinations served by the airlines it assists. SPdH (Portuguese handling services), such as handle.
Sttamp also recommended that passengers with flights planned on strike days confirm their travel through their airline services.
Workers at handling company SPdH (Groundforce) have called for a strike on August 31 and September 1, protesting against low wages, among other demands, according to a notice published last week.
Sttamp has issued a strike notice covering all national airports, “from 00:00 on 31 August 2024 until midnight on 1 September 2024”.
The strike was called against “basic salaries below the national minimum wage”, and in protest against “the systematic use of temporary workers in agencies” and “overtime in violation of the legal limits in force”.
Sttamp also justified the strike by saying that “again, whatever the cause or origin that weakens the company,” it will always be “the workers who will foot the bill.”
According to the notice, “workers will ensure the necessary services for the safety and maintenance of equipment and facilities” and “provide minimum basic services to meet basic social needs.”
Menzies Aviation announced in June that it had completed the acquisition of 50.1% of Groundforce Portugal, more than a year after announcing the new shareholder entry agreement, in March 2023.
In 2021, TAP requested the opening of insolvency proceedings for Groundforce, in a process in which the provisional list of creditors indicated, at that time, debts of around EUR 154 million. Subsequently, according to the plan, the recognised debts were set at EUR 136.2 million.
Menzies plans an initial investment of €12.5 million in Groundforce.
Lusa has contacted TAP to find out what the impact of the strike will be and is awaiting a response.
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