Diego de Cuba, president of the STA (Aruba’s Airport Workers Union), discussed the ongoing situation regarding the workers at Reina Beatrix Airport, describing the work environment as unhealthy and stating that both union and non-union members have raised numerous complaints.
For this reason, the STA has sent a letter to the management of Triple-A, outlining the various points and clauses in the current Collective Labor Agreement (CAO) that have been violated by the management.
De Cuba questioned the management’s commitment to honoring these agreements and expressed frustration over the lack of response from the management, despite the union’s efforts to address the issues since January of this year. “We are not receiving the answers we are seeking; we are not getting the response we need,” de Cuba said.
He also emphasized that although the union has considered involving a mediator and the Minister of Labor, the possibility of taking legal action is still on the table due to the growing anger among workers.
De Cuba further explained that the airport’s expansion project, which is estimated to cost between $550 million and $580 million, is contributing to the situation, as the project necessitates a larger workforce. However, he noted that the management is improperly using the CAO’s provisions on overtime, forcing workers to work extra hours during critical moments without proper consideration for their work-life balance and social schedules.
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