Management and unions enter talks on rail dispute

Management at Iarnród Éireann has entered talks with trade union officials today in the hope of avoiding further industrial action over the introduction of new trains.

A number of drivers refused to operate the new vehicles when they were introduced on Monday, causing two days of disruption to rail services in Dublin, Cork and the west of the country.

The drivers agreed to end their stoppage in the early hours of this morning to allow for talks to take place.

Iarnród Éireann has also agreed to delay the introduction of the new trains until Monday.

Speaking ahead of this morning's discussions, a company spokesman insisted that the trains would be brought into operation at that stage.

This has angered union officials, who say it will not help to create a positive atmosphere at the talks.

They say both sides had given undertakings not to make any public comments on the matter until after today’s meeting.