More strikes loom as Luas talks break down

Talks have broken down between Luas bosses and workers as eight more days of strike action threatens commuter disruption across Dublin.

Tram operator Transdev said it met with trade union Siptu to offer a new pay deal yesterday . However, in a statement after the meeting, the company said there was no point in further discussions.

“Based on the meeting this afternoon it is apparent that there is no basis for any talks or other intervention in this dispute at this point,” a Transdev spokeswoman said.

“The union’s expectations remain in excess of what was proposed at the Workplace Relations Commission [which in any event is withdrawn] and on that basis any discussions would have no prospect of success.”

Talks between the sides at the WRC broke down before Easter.

The deepening row centres on drivers and inspectors asking for pay rises ranging from less than 10% to 52% for those on lower scales.

Transdev claimed a deal put on the table would have given “substantial increases”, including a driver on €42,247 earning €50,000 by January 2019, alongside a €3,250 bonus.

With no resolution in sight, five 24-hour strikes are planned for April 28, May 4, 13, 20, and 27. A four-hour stoppage is also planned for May 26.