100,000 hit by rail strike

Widespread disruption is expected on the rail network throughout the day as locomotive drivers who are members of the ATGWU start three days of action.

The main disruption is centred on Dublin’s Connolly Station.

Services right along the east coast are expected to be hit as well as some services to the west.

The ATGWU has failed to respond to a last minute appeal from the Minister for Public Enterprise Mary O’Rourke to call off the action and to enter into talks brokered by the Irish Congress of Trade Unions.

The company said the issue of union recognition, which is at the heart of the dispute, is one between the various unions and there is little it can do to try and resolve the row.

However, it is understood that Irish Rail is staying in close contact with the ICTU in the hope that there will be a breakthrough.