ESB workers are today expected to signal if they are going to force nationwide power blackouts ahead of the general election over their ongoing dispute with the Government.
Trade unions met with Natural Resources Minister Noel Dempsey on Monday about controversial plans to break up the semi-state body.
They have threatened to take whatever action necessary if the Government forges ahead with the proposals in its new energy White Paper.
These would see the ESB give up control of high voltage cables — the transmission system — allowing the independent body EirGrid to run it.
The group of unions representing up to 8,000 electricity workers said they are prepared to strongly resist the moves.
Six of the main unions — AMICUS, ATGWU, ESBOA, SIPTU, TEEU, UCATT — are to give their response to the meeting with the minister.
