SIPTU issues ultimatum to Seamus Brennan

The union representing workers at CIE has vowed to organise widespread industrial action if it is unhappy with the outcome of talks with Transport Minister Seamus Brennan next week.

SIPTU made the threat as Dublin Bus workers met to discuss Mr Brennan’s plans to privatise 25% of bus services in the capital as part his proposed break up of CIE.

Tony Tobin, a spokesman for the union, said: "Bus workers are fighting for their jobs. This meeting this morning is only a tea party in comparison to what the minister will face if there’s not a positive meeting with him next Monday."

Meanwhile, the Labour Party has expressed its support for the CIE workers and their campaign of opposition to the privatisation of bus services.

Spokesman Ruairi Quinn said the Government was treating trade unions with contempt and trying to impose its will rather than negotiating a compromise.

He said the unions were entitled to have their concerns addressed.

"This country’s massive economic success is in part due to social partnership and the flexibility that the trade unions were able to deliver," Mr Quinn said.