Joan Collins warns of ‘summer of discontent’

Left-wing TDs have warned of a summer of industrial unrest unless employers back down on pay disputes that are set to take centre stage.

Independent TD Joan Collins said while no one wants the potential strike action in key public services, it will happen if workers are blocked from receiving long-overdue pay rises.

Speaking at a cross-party protest in support of Luas drivers attended by TDs from the Anti-Austerity Alliance-People Before Profit, Sinn Féin and Independents, Ms Collins said she and her colleagues were appalled to hear Ibec yesterday claim workers should not seek pay rises now.