The eight week old rail dispute is deadlocked again after the ILDA voted unanimously to reject proposals for a return to work put forward by the Labour Court and the Labour Relations Commission. Instead, members accepted an alternative proposal drawn up by the ILDA's executive, which would only involve a return to work if the issues surrounding safety are dealt with first. However, Iarnród Éireann has said that it will not deal with any new set of proposals, and has accused the ILDA of using the safety issue as a smokescreen.
Earlier today a spokesperson from Iarnród Éireann urged the drivers to accept the Labour Court-Labour Relations Commission proposals, saying that it was the only workable opportunity for an end to the strike. Rail services are operating at a similar level as they have been in recent weeks because of the unofficial ILDA action. DART and Maynooth lines are running as normal with a reduction of the Kildare and Drogheda suburban service. Some Intercity routes have full service, while there is a reduced level on others.
In a separate development, preparations are under way to put settlement proposals to a ballot of Iarnród Éireann maintenance workers in an attempt to resolve their dispute over pay and work practices. The proposals were agreed by negotiators representing the company and SIPTU. The talks started yesterday afternoon and went on through the night until 5.00am this morning. Union officials are recommending that members vote for the measures. As a result of the breakthrough, a rail strike that was due to go ahead today has been cancelled.
