NORMAL production is expected to resume this morning at the Cadbury plant in Coolock, Dublin, following a two day stoppage.
The plant reopened last night after SIPTU and ATGWU members voted by 394 to 230 to resume work. However, workers rostered, for last night's shift decided to stay out for another day in solidarity, with other staff, who had already lost two days' pay.
The two unions refused to become formally involved in the dispute because it was unofficial. Now that members have returned to work, ATGWU and SIFTU representatives are to meet management this morning to discuss the issues which led to the strike. Both sides have agreed to take the dispute to third party arbitration if necessary.
The outcome of the ballot was welcomed last night by the company and by the unions. Mr John Bolger of the ATGWU said his members had shown restraint and foresight in agreeing to go into procedures.
The dispute began on Monday morning after SIPTU and ATGWU members found that chocolate coating machinery had been tested by craft workers after a weekend overhaul.