A number of meat plants have asked SIPTU for meetings to discuss compensation for loss of earnings suffered by workers as a result of the farmers' blockade. SIPTU had given the employers up until 5 p.m. yesterday to respond to its call for compensation, or face strike action.
According to SIPTU regional secretary Mr Jack O'Connor, Kepak Ltd, which operates plants at Clonee in Co Dublin and Watergrasshill in Co Cork, "has confirmed in writing it will make good losses during the dispute. A number of other employers have approached us seeking meetings within the next 48 hours with a view to concluding agreements.
"Naturally we will not be taking strike action against any employer who settles in an amiable way." However, Mr O'Connor said strike ballots would begin today in all factories that are not prepared to reach agreements.
There was no comment from Kepak last night but a spokesman for the Irish Meat Association said his members were concerned at losses suffered by workers. As the problems of cattle prices were resolved at local level with farmers, he expected settlements with the workers as well.