The threat of any further disruptive action by rail workers has receded significantly after two unions agreed yesterday to reenter talks with Iarnrod Eireann under the auspices of the Labour Relations Commission.
SIPTU and the National Bus and Railworkers' Union (NBRU) formally accepted a proposal put forward by the commission last Sunday aimed at advancing the talks.
"This proposal sets down a method of progressing the discussions within the present process and without referral for thirdparty intervention," the unions said in a joint statement.
Iarnrod Eireann already has accepted the talks formula and will meet union representatives on December 7th for the first of a series of discussions to be chaired by a facilitator, Mr Kevin Foley.
The company's human resource manager, Mr John Keenan, welcomed the decision, saying there was "no reason for any further disruption by the unions".
The Minister for Public Enterprise, Ms O'Rourke, said she was aware "there will be many a hill to climb. But I hope, in those talks, a spirit of partnership and not confrontation will prevail."
SIPTU and NBRU said: "It is hoped that these discussions will now progress to a finality and an agreement be reached which will meet the aspiration of both parties, ensuring the viability of the company and giving locomotive drivers and all other grades in Iarnrod Eireann a quality lifestyle and salary that reflects the responsibility and commitment to the job."
