Dublin Bus drivers begin strike over new routes

Tens of thousands of commuters are facing disruption today due to a strike by Dublin Bus drivers based in the north of the city.

The drivers have placed unofficial pickets on the Harristown bus garage in protest at the introduction of two new routes.

They are angry that drivers operating on the Harristown-based routes will have to start and finish their shifts in the city centre, which will add extra unpaid hours to their working day.

Dublin Bus, however, says the Labour Court has ruled in favour of its position on the matter.

Thirty-six routes are affected by the strike action, with Finglas, Blanchardstown, Swords and Ballymun among the worst-affected areas.

Dublin Bus says up to 60,000 commuters could be disrupted if the action continues throughout the day.