Union talks over, Alitalia group says

HANOI, Vietnam, Nov. 4 (UPI) -- The chairman of an Italian business group negotiating to purchase Alitalia flight operations said Tuesday discussions with two union groups had ended.

Roberto Colaninno, the head of the Compagnia Aerea Italiana and chairman of Piaggio motor bikes, said "The question is closed, there will be no more meetings" with union officials representing Alitalia's pilots or flight attendants.

"Negotiations are over and reopening talks would mean the end of the project," Colaninno said during a trip to Vietnam, ANSA reported Tuesday.

"When CAI becomes the owner of those assets acquired from Alitalia those who are hired can defend their rights while those not employed will not even be let in the door," he said.

''Of course, we are sorry that not all unions accepted the contract plan. However, anyone interested in accepting a job at the 'new' Alitalia will have to accept the new conditions.