Dublin Port strike goes ahead after talks break down

Around 25 maintenance workers have begun strike action at Dublin Port this morning following the breakdown of talks last night aimed at averting the stoppage.

The members of the Technical, Engineering and Electrical Union (TEEU) are picketing the facility as part of a row over the suspension of nine shore-based workers two weeks ago.

The men were suspended for refusing to work on tug boats.

The Dublin Port Company says they are required to do so under an agreement reached last year, but the TEEU insists they are not properly trained.

Today's protest is causing minimal disruption to operations at the port.

However, the stoppage could force the closure of the port later this week if the TEEU gets the backing of SIPTU and the Seaman's Union of Ireland, who are balloting their members on whether to support the strike.