Unions PCS, Prospect and Unite reject Highlands and Islands Airports Ltd (HIAL) improved pay offer

A BALLOT of union workers at Hial has rejected an improved offer from the company.

Despite the "disappointing" ballot result, talks will continue to try and reach a solution said managing director Inglis Lyon.

A statement from HIAL said: "In recognition of the challenges colleagues are facing due to inflationary pressure and the cost-of-living crisis, HIAL explored all options to make an improved pay offer which was presented to trade unions PCS, Prospect and Unite.

"A ballot on whether to accept the pay offer has concluded, with colleagues rejecting the enhanced pay offer."

Mr Lyon added: “The offer was the result of an extensive exercise on cost savings and the generation of additional income to allow an enhanced pay award that was affordable from within our existing finances.

“We will now meet with union colleagues to try and reach a solution following the disappointing result.”

The enhanced pay offer comprised: A 5% basic pay award to all staff earning less that £80k: a 4% basic pay award to all staff earning more that £80k, and a 5% increase to fixed allowances, not automatically updated by the 5% increase in basic pay.

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