Strikes threatening infrastructure development - FG

Fine Gael has warned that major infrastructural development is under threat from the construction workers' strikes.

The building industry trade union BATU is demanding a £1,000-a-week basic wage for carpenters and brick layers.

The stoppage is delaying progress on the new Swords shopping centre in north Co Dublin. Fine Gael employment spokesman Charles Flanagan said it is vital the dispute is quickly resolved to prevent serious contractual delays.

He said facilities were in place under the PPF to allow round table discussions on the issue.