Talks resume at LRC over Dublin Bus dispute

Talks are taking place at the Labour Relations Commission today over a controversial cost-cutting plan at Dublin Bus.

Strikes by the National Bus and Rail Union (NBRU) and Siptu planned for last weekend were deferred for another week following talks at the LRC last Wednesday.

The NBRU had planned to hold a one-day stoppage on Saturday while another main union at Dublin Bus, Siptu was scheduled to begin a continuous strike from yesterday. A one-day stoppage on Saturday by staff at Bus Éireann over a separate cost-cutting plan was also postponed.

The Dublin Bus dispute stems from plans by management to cut 290 jobs, including those of 160 drivers, and axe 120 buses from the fleet.

It is understood that the LRC proposal put forward last week stated that any reductions in driver numbers, which may be identified in the course of reaching agreement, would be the subject of negotiations.

Dublin Bus agreed not to implement its plans for another week pending negotiations with unions.

Siptu branch organiser Willie Noone said before the start of the LRC talks this morning that the union will continue to oppose the proposal to cut drivers.

The NBRU said the forthcoming talks would look at the issue of a voluntary severance package for senior staff at Dublin Bus as an alternative to sacking the 160 drivers, most of whom had been with the company for a short period.