Commenting on the announcement from Bristow Helicopters, the largest operator in the North Sea, that they are having to make redundancies among their helicopter pilots, Jim McAuslan, General Secretary of BALPA (British Airline Pilots' Association) said:

'Talks between BALPA and the company start on Friday.

'The news comes as a disappointment, but BALPA has developed an approach to tackling the impact of the economic downturn that has 4 key stages:

1. pressure testing the employers financial claims that cuts have to be made
 
2. looking at alternatives to compulsory redundancy such as early retirement packages and offers of part time working
 
3. ensuring that if compulsory redundancies are necessary they are dealt with by the industry-standard method of Last In- First Out and

4. supporting individual members through the trauma of compulsory redundancy.

'BALPA's approach is to avoid having to proceed to stage 3, and will be working hard to achieve that. Our relationship with Bristow has been good in the good times, and these difficult times will test its resilience. The signs to date are encouraging.'

Standing back from this specific announcement Jim McAuslan said "the announcement raises broader concerns about the supply chain in the North Sea. It would appear to BALPA that the Oil and Gas companies continue to make huge profits and yet are remorselessly squeezing businesses all the way down the supply chain.

'There is a real danger that this approach could squeeze many businesses out of existence or force businesses into cutting corners. This boom and bust approach should be a concern to everyone who cares about a sustainable and safe industry in the North Sea.

'Politicians should take especial note if Scotland is to retain the strategic wherewithal to tap its natural resources'

Further information from Keith Bill 020 8656 0860 or 07968 528 527