Angry scenes at Dublin docks

There were angry scenes at Dublin port earlier today and severe traffic delays around the area due to a protest in support of striking Siptu members.

An estimated 500 to 600 people gathered at Dublin docks in support of striking dockers who are in dispute with cargo handlers Marine Terminals Ltd (MTL).

The protesters had marched from different points to converge in a mass rally at the Marine Terminals depot.

An estimated 200 to 300 marchers broke away from the main protest, breached security at the port, and occupied Marine Terminals and drivers' booking offices.

The crowd shouted "scabs out" in reference to what protesters say is "scab" labour being used among drivers. Gardaí have been called to the scene.

The marches started at 10.30am at the O2 on the North Wall, St Joseph's School, East Wall, and Ray's Shop in Ringsend. Container traffic to and from the port, as well as motorists using the East Link bridge, was expected to be disrupted for at least two hours.

The marches are being supported by the Dublin Council of Trade Unions and Belfast Council of Trade Unions, as well as the local communities where most of the strikers live, in East Wall and Ringsend.

According to Siptu, the company has begun posting P45 forms to the strikers, to notify them of cessation of their employment. The first P45s arrived in the post yesterday, and seven strikers have confirmed receiving them so far, the union said, with other strikers expected to receive them this morning.

Siptu branch organiser Oliver McDonagh said the move was "another intimidatory exercise designed to break the will of the strikers".

"This makes it all the more essential for other trade unionists in the port, and elsewhere, to support our struggle. We are appealing to anyone who is free on Monday morning to join the protest marches."

Gardaí said the traffic congestion in the area was "severe". Gardaí are on duty in the area and are working in conjunction with Dublin City Council in relation to traffic signals. The Garda Press Office said motorists were advised to avoid the area and to use alternative routes.

The protest is expected to last until about 1.30pm.