The company which runs Waterford Port has described as "reckless" the actions of striking boatmen who prevented an oil tanker entering the port earlier today.
Gardaí were called to Rice Bridge shortly after 11 a.m. after two boatmen staged a picket and prevented the bridge from opening and allowing a tanker laden with oil, gas and kerasin to pass.
The boatmen who transport pilots to ships navigating the Suir from Dunmore East have been on strike for two weeks over pay and conditions.
Chairman of the Waterford Port company, Mr Ben Gavin, told ireland.com, the action of taken this morning was "irresponsible" especially considering the cargo of the tanker.
Another attempt will be made tomorrow to bring the tanker up river, but the striking boatmen say pickets would be placed on the Bridge tomorrow morning.
Mr Gavin criticised SIPTU, which represents the workers, saying the union had shown a lack of leadership.
Last week SIPTU Regional Organiser, Mr Davy Lane, said the union has no option but to escalate their strike action.
"We've decided that in order to increase pressure on management in relation to our claim we have no other choice. Our members are looking for their working conditions to be improved," he said.
