CWU branch to discuss union directive

A branch of the Communications Workers Union is to hold a meeting in Co Mayo this evening to discuss a directive from the union asking them to sort mail in their homes.

The directive, which was agreed between the CWU and An Post, is aimed at under-cutting a series of rolling stoppages by Irish Postmasters' Union in protest at pay and conditions.

The IPU has decided to shut down 540 rural sorting offices every Monday and Friday between now and Christmas as part of its long-running dispute with An Post.

The CWU represents many postal delivery staff.

A source within the CWU has said that many of the union's members are concerned at the directive asking them to overcome the strike by sorting mail in their homes, saying it would put them in conflict with postmasters who they have worked with for years.

The source also said that many members are worried about being docked a day's pay if they refuse to co-operate with the directive.

A decision on whether or not to implement the order is expected to taken at tonight's meeting.