Medical device maker BD (Becton Dickinson) is to refer a dispute over severance packages at its Drogheda plant to the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC).
Last week, SIPTU members employed at the plant began industrial action in the form of a work-to-rule.
The union has accused management of failing to engage with it concerning the planned closure of the facility.
BD said today that the matter of severance package negotiations for its Drogheda employees is to be referred to the WRC but added that it remains open to mediation.
"BD has actively engaged and consulted with the trade unions, trade union representatives and BD employees since 3 July when it was announced that a phased closure of our manufacturing facility in Drogheda would take place," a spokesperson said.
"Despite our best efforts to negotiate with all employees and their unions, BD has had to take a decision to refer this matter to the Workplace Relations Commission to move the process forward."
"We remain open to re-engaging with all employees and their unions directly and are amenable to mediation to resolve the current impasse," the company said.
BD said it feels a referral to the WRC is the best method to resolve the matter for employees and to ensure continuity in the supply of products.
