Hopes of Vita deal as union agrees to LRC talks

There are hopes of a breakthrough in the long-running Vita Cortex dispute after Siptu agreed last night to attend talks at the Labour Relations Commission next week.

The union, which is now representing 23 workers involved in the 12-week occupation of the former foam plant in Cork over ex-gratia redundancy payments, will meet the LRC in Dublin on Tuesday. It is understood the LRC will then meet with employers’ union, Ibec, representing Vita Cortex.

The invitation to talks followed extensive behind-the-scenes contacts between all parties, and days after Labour leader Eamon Gilmore met the workers.