Bord na Mona transport workers vote for industrial action

More than 130 transport staff at Bord na Mona have voted "overwhelmingly" for industrial action after a ballot by Siptu in a row over cuts to staff bonuses.

The union says changes to the bonus schemes of the rail and haulage workers, who transport the company’s peat harvest from its bogs, will result in a pay cut of up to 12 per cent.

About 100 rail staff are affected by the move. A further 30 staff associated with its road transport operations are also affected The union says management has floated the idea of outsourcing some roles in this division.

Work-to-rule

Siptu organiser and chairman of the BnM group of unions, John Regan, said the industrial action will consist mainly of work-to-rule. The decision to take action has still to be ratified by Siptu's national executive.

“The action will cover tea breaks, adhering to the eight-hour day, overtime bans, and general work-to-rule,” said Mr Regan.

He said no talks are scheduled with management. The union says industrial action can be avoided if the company reverses the changes to pay and withdraws plans to outsource certain transport functions.

BnM last month reported annual sales up 6 per cent to €432 million.