Industrial action threat at Port Tunnel

Industrial action by workers at Dublin Port Tunnel is expected over a dispute with management over union recognition.

Workers at the €725-million tunnel, officially opened last December, are currently in dispute with the tunnel's operator Transroute, over pay, conditions and the company's refusal to allow the union to represent employees.

Siptu branch organiser Owen Reidy said that industrial action, which could lead to serious disruption, was now "extremely likely."

"It is completely unacceptable that a company which has been awarded an attractive State contract - and given significant public monies to operate a vital piece of public infrastructure - should deny their employee's legitimate right to be collectively represented by a trade union.

"The rates of pay and terms of conditions of employment are significantly lower at Transroute than at other well known competitors and this issue must be dealt with," said Mr Reidy.

He said the workers have been trying to engage with management since June, he continued. "The company has however, steadfastly refused to enter into negotiations with us."

Siptu added that it has contacted the National Roads Authority (NRA) about the ongoing dispute and said that it hoped that industrial action could be averted.

"The workers' objective is to avoid a dispute which has the potential to close the port tunnel and severely disrupt the travelling public.

However, should management maintain its current negative and out-dated approach, then a serious dispute, while regrettable, may be inevitable," said Mr Reidy.