Union invokes EU rule in airport concessions bid

The General Workers' Union yesterday formally informed Malta International Airport plc that a European Union directive would become applicable in the event that the contractor responsible for part of the airport catering was changed.

In a judicial letter filed in the First Hall of the Civil Court, the GWU referred to the tendering process for the concession of the Runway Bistro and Gateway Diners at the airport, which two outlets were currently operated by Corinthia Caterers.

In the event that Corinthia Caterers would not be awarded the concessions again, the GWU said the European directive on the safeguarding of employees' rights in the event of transfers of undertakings or businesses would be applicable.

This directive applied by virtue of the law governing employment and industrial relations in Malta.

The GWU called upon MIA to immediately make this known to all prospective tenderers for the two concessions so that the bidders' offers would reflect the obligations they would have to assume as a result of the directive. Furthermore, the successful tenderer could then immediately enter into discussions with the union in terms of law.

The union held MIA liable in damages in the event that the terms of the judicial letter were not complied with.

Lawyer Aron Mifsud Bonnici signed the letter.