Washington (EFE).- The United States Secretary of Transportation, Sean Duffy, threatened on Tuesday to take “measures” against air traffic controllers who are absent from their jobs due to the government shutdown, the longest in history, which resulted in them not receiving a salary.
Duffy made these statements at a press conference after US President Donald Trump announced on Monday his intention to cut the salaries of absent controllers and offer a 10,000 dollar bonus to those who report to work.
“I’m concerned about those controllers. I’m concerned about their dedication. I’m concerned about their patriotism. We haven’t made a decision, but we are going to look at those controllers,” Duffy said at the Chicago airport.
He added that he is trying to hire more air traffic controllers. However, if they don’t do their job, they will take measures.
At the same press conference, the secretary stated that control towers experienced fewer staffing problems on Tuesday because most workers “are seeing an end to the shutdown and they are feeling more hopeful and they are coming in” after the Senate advanced a resolution to reopen the administration.
The federal government shutdown due to lack of funds, which at 42 days is the longest in history, is especially impacting air transport, as thousands of controllers who are not receiving payment are absent every day, citing health reasons.
The controller shortage forced the Trump administration to order a 10% reduction in air traffic at the country’s 40 main airports, resulting in a wave of flight delays and cancellations.
On Tuesday, over 1,200 planes were grounded, and another 3,200 experienced delays. Meanwhile, concerns in America are growing as Thanksgiving approaches in late November.
After several weeks of failed attempts, the Senate approved a budget extension to reopen the administration on Monday. The measure passed with the support of a group of rebel Democrats who joined the Republicans.
The House of Representatives must now approve the measure, which will then require Trump’s signature to become law. EFE
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