by Mindy Aguon

Guam - "CANCEL THAT PAY". That's what airport aircraft rescue firefighters believe should happen to the certified technical professional positions study. In an opposition letter submitted to Guam International Airport Authority management and that agency's board on Thursday, ARRF personnel question how GIAA can consider pay increases when austerity measures were implemented just a few months ago.

Those cost-cutting initiatives included a reduction in work hours for firefighters. They question why the airport continued to hire more consultants, purchased new furniture, renovated office space and continued to authorize travel. The personnel also expressed concerns that the study only provides increases to 41% of the GIAA employees while upper management stands to benefit the most.

They argue that once implemented, employees have no process to appeal. The board has agreed to formulate a working committee comprised of board members and division heads to review the employees' concerns.