Swissport baggage handlers at Liverpool airport have suspended their planned strike action for the bank holiday weekend.
Workers were due to walk out on Saturday (24 August) following a dispute over pay and health and safety concerns, according to the GMB union.
However, this action has been suspended to allow the GMB union to re-ballot its members at Liverpool airport on a new proposal from Swissport.
A further one-day walkout planned for Thursday (29 August) has also been suspended pending the outcome of a fresh ballot.
The GMB is recommending members accept Swissport’s new proposal.
A Liverpool airport spokesperson said the airport welcomed the decision, and stressed its contingency plans would have mitigated any potential impact from the strike.
“While no disruption for passengers was planned, we are naturally pleased this proposed industrial action will now not be taking place and that the GMB are recommending Swissport employees accept the company’s latest proposal,” they added.
A Swissport spokesperson added: “Swissport is pleased to confirm the strike action due to take place over the bank holiday weekend at Liverpool John Lennon Airport has been suspended. This will allow the GMB to ballot its members on a new proposal put forward by Swissport.
“We are confident this proposal, which has been drafted following considered negotiations, will deliver the best outcome for our employees, customers and airline passengers.
“We are encouraged the GMB will recommend the proposal is accepted by its members and welcome this breakthrough.”