Airport tower a concern for employees

Some air traffic controllers at Grantley Adams International Airport (GAIA) have complained of varying health challenges which they blame on environmental issues associated with the tower.

Their bargaining agent – the National Union of Public Workers (NUPW) is closely monitoring the situation as airport management takes steps to have the problem fixed.

Deputy General Secretary of the NUPW Wayne Walrond disclosed on Monday that management was in the process of hiring an expert to tackle any air quality issues in the control tower.

“All I could say right now is that management is looking to procure the services of someone to have that assessment done. But we know Government’s procurement process and red tape…They are looking to have an independent and professional assessment on it to determine the next course of action. That’s all I can say about that development,” he added.

“It is my understanding that some people have been impacted in various ways [including] respiratory problems and some have had to take leave from time to time,” Walrond explained. Meanwhile, an industrial dispute between air traffic controllers and the government is nearing a resolution.

On Friday, the union announced that the standoff over the upgrade and appointment of air traffic control cadets as air traffic control officers grade 2, is anticipated to end by this Friday.

“This matter would have caused some unrest among the workers, and the union was mandated to ensure that it continued to vigorously pursue this matter. We are pleased to announce that in communication with the Ministry of the Public Service, they informed us of the progress made thus far,” said Walrond in an audio statement to Barbados TODAY.

“The matter is now to go before the Cabinet and we look forward to having it concluded by March 31,” he stated.

The union executive official recalled meeting on March 11 with the air traffic control officers to update them on the appointment and upgrade of the 25 cadets.

The air traffic control tower has direct responsibility for managing, handling, takeoffs, and all movement within the airport terminal control area. (EJ)