Air staff cuts probe sought

Press, 21 August 1989, Page 7

Air staff cuts probe sought

PA Auckland Airline cabin crew have called for a public inquiry into staff cuts in the air transport division. A cabin crew union spokesman said yesterday the union had seen a decline in air safety standards in the last two years and feared the consequences of a restructuring in the division. “I think the problem is they are losing all the expertise of these people,” the spokesman said. An internal report from the division said staff had been reduced by 39 per cent in 12 months. The union was concerned about the prospect of any further restruc-

turing or reductions, the spokesman said. It had made seven complaints about safety during the last two years — more than in the previous 12 years. Cabin crew picked up on “small things that ultimately affect air safety.” With fewer civil aviation staff, however, there was concern that such matters would not receive the “eagle eye treatment.” they deserved. “We cannot compromise on safety; the past few weeks have shown that.” The union would now have to

deal with people without experience in such a role. The Minster of Civil Aviation, Mr Jeffries, would be asked to order a public inquiry into the staff reductions. He had already been told of concerns about restructuring. Mr Jeffries is due to receive today an interim report on a Civil Aviation Authority spot audit of third-level airlines.

The Ministry of Transport is consulting the aviation industry before Mr Jeffries appoints an overseas expert to find out if the air transport division has enough staff to maintain safety standards.