Talks are underway to avert strike action at the Bausch & Lomb plant in Waterford. Some 1,500 workers at the contact lens manufacturing plant have been put on protective notice by management over the dispute.
Union leaders and management are meeting to try and prevent any further escalation of the row.
The Technical Engineering and Electrical Union (TEEU) said it is preparing to stage at picket at the factory tonight.
The dispute centres on the suspension of a shop steward by Baush and Lomb management, according to the union.
A TEEU spokesman said: "Both sides have entered discussions without prejudice to their respective positions and are refraining from comment while talks take place."
