ESB technicians begin strike over use of contractors

Around 1,200 ESB technicians are downing tools this morning as part of a dispute over the company's use of external contractors.

The ATGWU has claimed that apprentice technicians at ESB are being denied permanent jobs with the company due to the use of these contractors on a programme to upgrade the electricity network.

The ESB, however, has claimed the hiring of the contractors was part of a deal negotiated with trade unions four years ago.

The strike action does not pose an immediate threat to electricity supplies, but blackouts are possible if it is allowed to continue as technicians would not be available to repair breakdowns.