Expert group to be appointed in An Post dispute

The Labour Court will appoint an expert group to help resolve the dispute at An Post which has threatened postal sevices.

Both sides are to meet again tomorrow at the Labour Court after talks there today ended early to allow the court make an interim declaration. ireland.comhas learned the court will announce the establishment of an expert group to advise on the company's restructuring plan.

Sources have indicated the group will comprise three members, some of whom will have experience in the postal sector, to help resolve the issues and make recommendations on the plan.

The source described the approach as "unusual", and added that only time would tell if it would be successful.

An Post is in financial difficulty with latest figures showing a €43 million loss. The company and Minister for Communications say the losses are not sustainable but the Communication Workers Union (CWU) is angered at what it sees as inadequate consultation over restructuring.

Their grievance was highlighted when An Post decided to close its parcel-delivery subsidiary, SDS, with the loss of 270 jobs and the reintegration of the business into the company's main operations.

The union said new terms and conditions to follow the closure were implemented without agreement and staff refused to co-operate, leading to the suspension of 90 workers.

The Labour Court will address the SDS issue later this week but tomorrow's declaration is aimed at resolving the dispute over pay and restructuring.

As part of the cost-cutting plan, An Post wants to shed 1,450 jobs and reduce overtime. However, members of the CWU have rejected the plan and the 5.35 per cent pay increase offered.

The expert group will be asked to report back before May 6th on the restructuring plan.

However, the CWU also want the company's failure to pay rises due under Sustaining Progress to be addressed and its general secretary Mr Steve Fitzpatrick, told ireland.comthis evening that it would be seeking access to the company's accounts to determine if the increases are affordable.