Siptu has accepted an invitation by Aer Lingus management to last-ditch talks in an attempt to avert industrial action at the airline next week.
The airline said last night the talks, which will not be held at Dublin airport, represented the final opportunity to resolve issues over the introduction of proposed work practice changes.
Siptu branch organiser Teresa Hannick said: "We have requested that these issues by dealt with by the Labour Relations Commission, but we are willing to meet the company on this."
As part of a €20 million cost-saving plan, the company is seeking new rosters with shifts of varying lengths and flexible work practices.
In a letter to workers, Aer Lingus management said it would implement the changes unilaterally on Monday if agreement was not reached with Siptu by this weekend.
"It is important that you understand that if you fail to unreservedly engage in your full range of duties as may be instructed and requested, you will be suspended from the payroll," the letter said.
Despite the talks, Siptu said today it will proceed with a ballot on industrial action and will put contingency measures in place if the company decides to go ahead with its plans to suspend employees without pay from Monday morning.
Up to 20,000 Aer Lingus passengers could be affected each day if the dispute goes ahead.