http://www.antiguaobserver.com/?p=71147

[Antigua] Air controllers’ side of the story
Air Traffic Controllers
Tuesday, February 14th, 2012.

Dear Editor

During the Friday, February 10 Voice of the People programme, the minister of civil aviation intimated that air traffic controllers were being paid a transition allowance by the government in spite of them having not yet gone over to the Airport Authority.

This would suggest to the public that controllers are receiving monies that they have not worked for.

In contrast to the minister’s intimation, controllers entered into negotiations with the government for an increase in salaries, and in lieu, accepted an increase in the form of an allowance.

GABATCO, the union representing controllers, conceded to the increase being termed “Transition Allowance” until the transition to the Airport Authority is complete.

Contractually, the increase is part of controllers’ monthly pay packets, and due at the end of each month.

The controllers even agreed that the increase would not be pensionable until their transition to the authority is complete. It was agreed that on completion of the transition the term “transition allowance” would be dropped and the increase would be made part of pensionable salaries.

GABATCO has submitted a collective agreement proposal to the Airport Authority and is awaiting word as to when negotiations will take place.

These facts certainly paint a different picture than that suggested by the minister of civil aviation.