Finance Minister Colm Imbert says he will help Caribbean Airlines settle pilots’ pay dispute, within reason.

In a statement he noted ongoing protest action by CAL pilots regarding salary negotiations for the period 2015 to 2020.

He adds that Government is committed to ensuring fair, equitable, and reasonable collective agreements, while also considering the country’s economic realities, particularly the current financial condition of the Airline itself.

Mr Imbert says while the Airline may be heading for an operational profit, over the last nine years, his Ministry has taken over its debts and debt servicing obligations.

Additionally, he claims that pilots’ salaries account for 33% of the airline’s payroll costs, despite comprising 13% of its total workforce.

CAL has also advises of other complex issues, including a demand of TT$55 million for severance and damages from contract pilots over 60 years of age, who are reportedly unwilling to leave upon reaching 60, despite specific contract clauses.

The statement goes on to say, “Minister Imbert wishes to emphasise that the Government values the critical role that pilots play in maintaining regional and international connectivity and ensuring safe travel. However, based on the information provided by CAL, the compensation packages for pilots appear to compare favourably with that of other professionals, particularly given the challenging economic conditions affecting the broader population. Notwithstanding this, the Minister of Finance will take appropriate action to provide further support to Caribbean Airlines so that this wage dispute can be settled, within reason, and once good sense prevails.”