Union, association in slanging match

Gozo Channel Co. Ltd, which is in talks with the Union Haddiema Maghqudin over its suspended baggage trolly service, yesterday said any outcome of the negotiations could not possibly imply increased costs to the company, which was already in a very tight financial situation.

The baggage service for ferry passengers was introduced in 2000 after the company held discussions with the Gozo Tourism Association but was stopped in November last year due to industrial action ordered by the UHM.

"It would be unfortunate if unreasonable intransigence is allowed to overtake common sense and we end up buying industrial peace at any cost, including a cost transferred to passengers who deserve the best quality service with the lowest possible price," Gozo Channel said.

The company was referring to a call issued by the association for the service to be reintroduced for the benefit of tourists travelling to and from Gozo.

The association reminded the union that although the action was being taken in the interest of a few Gozo Channel employees, it was jeopardising the tourism industry in Gozo.

The UHM replied, saying the action it was taking was not only in the interest of a few workers but in the interest of all Gozo Channel employees and their families.

The union appealed to the association not to get involved in matters "it does not understand", especially in a case where the circumstances were not simply related to the baggage service.

The union said the industrial action was legitimate and certainly did not do the damage which abuse in prices and inadequate service to tourists did to Gozo tourism.