Douglas North MHK, David Ashford, asked Ray Harmer, the Minister for Infrastructure, what consultation was carried out with airlines prior to the recent decision in relation to baggage handling?
In his response Mr Harmer advised:
"There has been more dialogue with the airlines about our baggage handling services over the last 18 months than at any other time during recent years. On many occasions during that period our airlines have asked about the possibility of moving the baggage handling service to their own handling agent in order to have a ‘one stop shop’ for ground services at Ronaldsway.
"Honourable Members will appreciate that private companies already provide ground handling services on contract to airlines, both on the Island and elsewhere. The Isle of Man Airport was unusual in that it required airlines to use the Department’s baggage handling service whilst leaving airlines to select their own contractors for the other services they need at an airport. Again, I am sure that Members appreciate that the recent regrettable change was a decision to withdraw from the market, not some form of privatisation or contracting out.
"The Department, through the management of the Ports Division, has regular discussions and meetings with senior management, marketing and ground handling staff from the airlines that operate to and from the Isle of Man. In addition, each airline undertakes an annual audit of each particular element of the aircraft operation at Ronaldsway. For the Department, this specifically includes an audit of aviation security, aviation safety management, apron baggage and the service for looking after passengers with reduced mobility.
"As part of the review of the service provided by the Department’s Apron Section, the Director of Ports specifically asked the airlines for feedback on the service provided.
"The decision to end the Department’s Apron Section service was an extremely difficult one that was taken after full and frank discussions with staff, supervisors, union officials and airline customers.
"In terms of our passengers, we are committed to ensuring a smooth transition of the service, so that it remains business as usual for users of the Airport. In terms of our airlines, this is a decision that meets their requests for change.
