The unions say an urgent 'just transition' programme is needed, to help the company move away from peat-burning.

The announcement that 148 workers would be laid off was made on July 11 and since then, union representatives and Bord Na Móna have been in talks over the staff losses.

Bord na Móna has reversed its decision to lay off 70 permanent staff in the midlands, according to Siptu.