A Dutch court has blocked a proposed 24-hour strike by KLM ground staff which was pencilled in for this Saturday.
Two workers’ unions – FNV and CNV – walked out of talks, earlier this week, with KLM management over a new collective labour agreement (CLA).
However, the court in Haarlem said the strike action would be disproportionate to the ongoing dispute and, thus, didn’t allow it to proceed.
“The fact that the strike cannot go ahead is good for our passengers and the company. However, this does not resolve the problem. Therefore, it is important that we reach an agreement with the unions,” said Miriam Kartman, HR Director at KLM. “KLM wants to continue discussions with all unions about the collective labour agreement to work together on arrangements that are beneficial for everyone.”
KLM said it hopes to meet with all the unions again soon.
KLM said in a statement that is has made a CLA proposal that invests in the future of its employees, while also calling for a pause on further salary increases. Since 2019, wages have risen significantly — by at least 25%, and in some cases up to 40%. Given KLM’s current financial situation and the high level of global uncertainty, there is no room at this time for additional wage growth.
