Deadline today for resolution in Irish Ferries row

Talks aimed at resolving the Irish Ferries dispute are taking place for a third day at the Labour Relations Commission.

Management of Irish Ferries and Siptu agreed to negotiations at the recommendation of the National Implementation Body (NIB), with the deadline for reaching a resolution set for today.

The company has clashed with the union over its plans to replace Irish workers with cheaper foreign labour.

However, an Irish Ferries proposal to re-register its ships in Cyprus has threatened the possibility of reaching a deal. The NIB has proposed a compromise that would allow the company to re-register the vessels once it has agreed to maintain Irish employment standards, such as minimum wage.

However, Siptu officials have criticised the plan, claiming that it would be unenforceable. A national day of protest is planned for Friday, to highlight concerns about employment standards.

Meanwhile, a protest by the international Transport Workers Federation is due to take place at Holyhead today in support of the Irish Ferries staff.

The rally is being supported by the Wales TUC, the TUC and the Irish Congress of Trade Unions (Ictu).