SIPTU representatives will attend talks with the management of Transdev, the operator of the LUAS light rail network operator, at the Workplace Relations Commission, on Friday, 22nd January.

The talks are aimed at finding a resolution to a dispute concerning workers’ terms and conditions of employment which has resulted in LUAS staff voting to conduct two 48-hour work stoppages during February.

SIPTU Utilities and Construction Division Organiser, Owen Reidy, said: “SIPTU representatives will enter these talks seeking a fair resolution to this dispute.  However, any resolution will necessitate movement by the company on the crucial issue of workers’ pay.

“The service our members provide has led to an increase in LUAS passenger numbers and passenger revenue in excess of 25% over the last five years. During that period, the workers have only received a 2.5% pay increase. These workers cover a transport system operated seven days a week, 364 days a year, and receive nothing in addition to their salaries for working unsocial hours or weekends.”

He added: “It is hoped that both sides will work hard to find a fair resolution to the dispute. However, without a significant change in the intransigent position displayed by management to date, the scheduled work stoppages will take place on Thursday, 11th and Friday, 12th and Thursday, 18th Friday and 19thFebruary. The workers are conscious of the inconvenience these stoppages will have on their customers but believe they have no option but to conduct this industrial action.”