Talks on Aer Lingus row expected to run into next week

Talks between Aer Lingus management and the pilots' union IALPA are expected to run into next week.

The two sides are holding their first full day of talks at the Labour Relations Commission today after the pilots agreed to abandon a planned two-day strike in order to facilitate the discussions.

The dispute centres on the airline's plans to hire new pilots in Belfast on lesser terms and conditions than those enjoyed in the Republic.

Meanwhile, local Fine Gael TDs, Senators and councillors are meeting in Shannon today to discuss their response to the Aer Lingus' decision to axe services between Heathrow and the Co Clare facility.

They are planning to draw up a strategy to save the route, which they say is of vital importance to the economy in the west and mid-west.