STAFF at Liverpool Airport could go on strike during the August Bank Holiday after a union launched a ballot.

GMB Union says it is balloting members over strike action claiming the relationship between staff and a company which operates out of the airport is "fundamentally broken".

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The dispute is with Swissport, which employs baggage handlers and other workers at Liverpool John Lennon Airport.

GMB says that members are unhappy with health and safety issues, working practices, pay and the company’s breach of the recognition agreement.

The union is undertaking industrial action ballots for around 200 members working on the Swissport Easy Jet contract and Swissport Mainline.

Both ballots will finish on August 7 and, if successful, industrial action will take place on the August Bank Holiday weekend.

Eddie Parker, GMB Organiser, said: “Our members working at Liverpool’s John Lennon are unhappy with Health and Safety issues, working practices, pay and the company’s breach of the recognition agreement.

“Despite numerous attempts at constructive discussions, our relationship with the company is fundamentally broken

“The last thing our members want to do is go on strike – and it is not too late for the company to get round the table and thrash out a deal.”

A Swissport spokesperson said: “Consultations regarding employee pay are ongoing and we are making progress and are hopeful of reaching a resolution shortly.

"Swissport remains committed to resolving this matter to protect the interests of our customers, airline passengers and employees.”

A spokesman for Liverpool Airport said they will not be making comment on the matter at this stage.