Strike set to close Port Tunnel

Dublin’s Port Tunnel could be forced to shut down next month pushing hundreds of HGVs back on to the city streets in a row over workers’ pay.

Trade union Siptu, which represents employees on the underground route, claimed its members are being paid less than the industry norm and many earn less than the average wage.

They warned workers are prepared to walk out in August after a 14-day strike notice, which takes effect on July 23, was served today.

Owen Reidy, SIPTU branch organiser, said staff want pay and other terms of employment brought into line with the industry norm.

“In some cases members earn over 30% less than the average industrial wage in what is a 24/7, 365 days a year operation,” he said.

Transroute Tunnel Operations, operator of the route, had taken the dispute to the Labour Court but Siptu revealed it was not prepared to abide by their recommendations.

Mr Reidy said the Labour Court intervention left a large number of workers even worse off than.

“We have been campaigning for improved conditions of employment in Transroute for the past year and members have been extremely patient,” he said.

Siptu claimed salaries were not based on normal shift pay, Sunday working or overtime.

All workers voted for the strike but Mr Reidy said the union would remain available for talks.

Transroute runs the operation and maintenance of the tunnel including the toll booths, traffic management, safety, emergency and contingency plans and inspections.