Port-of-Spain---29 Sept. 2006---BWIA and the four trade unions representing its workers have signed agreements for a Voluntary Separation from Employment Plan (VSEP) and all eligible BWIA employees can apply for VSEP benefits from Monday (October 1).

Those unions are the Aviation Communication and Allied Workers Union (ACAWU), Communication Transport and General Trade Union (CATTU), Superinten-dents Association and the TT Pilots Association.

In a statement yesterday, BWIA CEO Peter Davies said these agreements were “a significant milestone” as the national airline makes its seamless transition to the new Caribbean Airlines on January 1, 2007.

Davies said the acceptance of these proposals by the unions will facilitate the separation of all employees with enhanced benefits and the cessation of BWIA’s operations by December 31.

He added that this will usher in “a new chapter in Caribbean aviation.”

Speaking with the media after the unions met with BWIA officials to finalise their VSEP agreements at Sunjet House in Port-of-Spain on Tuesday, ACAWU President Curtis John remained optimistic of Caribbean Airlines’ success.

BWIA has assured its customers that as it makes the transition to Caribbean Airlines, its employees would ensure that daily operations continue in their (customers’) best interest.

BWIA added that all tickets purchased for travel on BWIA, BWEE Frequent Flyer Miles and Club BWEE memberships would be honoured by Caribbean Airlines.

Source: newsday.co.tt