The train strike planned for next week has been called off as striking train drivers today unanimously accepted a Labour Court offer of mediation.
The decision came during a meeting of the Amalgamated Transport and General Workers' Union (ATGWU) members in Dublin today which ended at about 2 p.m.
The Labour Court's formula included an early Labour Court hearing and the separation disciplinary proceedings against seven drivers and the question of union representation.
Commenting on the decision, ATGWU's Mr Marty Whelan said: "The members unanimously accepted the motion to co-operate with the proposed Labour Court investigation and to suspend strike action." The strikes were planned for next Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.
The Committee also confirmed its support for continued efforts to improve inter-union relations through the offices of ICTU and to achieve union representation for the ATGWU train drivers in Irish Rail.
ATGWU Irish Secretary Mr Mick O’Reilly - who recommended that the 12-member Drivers Branch Committee accept the Labour Court offer - said after the meeting the decision provided the opportunity and forum to work with the other unions and go to the Labour Court.
"If we all take a positive attitude, I think we can resolve the problems," he said.
Meanwhile the Taoiseach Mr Ahern said at a conference today that the Government would not allow disputes by "micro-minority" to hinder the development of the country.
Speaking at the annual conference of the Association of Higher Civil and Public Servants today, Mr Ahern said: "I would not let a tiny small number of disputes, no matter how high profile they are deflect me from two points: the further developing of the economy . . . and making every effort to improve the quality of life and opportunity for people"
The ATGWU was conducting the strike for more than 100 recently amalgamated Irish Locomotive Drivers’ Association members (ILDA). The union said it took the action because it was not allowed to represent seven members who recently appeared before an Iarnród Éireann disciplinary hearing.
However Iarnród Éireann said the dispute was an inter-union one.
In a statement the Branch Committee said it hopes that all issues would be resolved before the proposed roster changes, including a new Irish Rail timetable, on June 6th, 2001. It said it would meet and review progress on My 27th, 2001.