Bin charges conflict continues

Industrial stoppages in sectors represented by the Technical, Engineering and Electrical Union are likely next week following the jailing of Deputy Joe Higgins and Councillor Claire Daly in the conflict over bin charges.

The country's largest craft union has invited representatives of the Association of Combined Residents' and the National Association of Tenants organisations to a meeting of shop stewards this coming Wednesday, when industrial action is to be considered.

Eamonn Devoy of the TEEU says the union will be calling on other unions and trade councils to consider involvement in a campaign to end bin charges.

Mr Devoy says a situation is rapidly developing where the Government is propping up the exchequer with indirect taxes, while maintaining low income tax and capital gains tax rates for its wealthy supporters.