ESB and Irish Water staff face jail over strike action

ESB and Irish Water staff who strike could be fined or jailed if their industrial action leads to supplies being cut off.

A new Bill to be debated in the Seanad next week would make it illegal for crucial utility services to be shut off by strikes.

Independent Senator Fergal Quinn who is introducing the Bill said that consumers should be protected if vital supplies are interrupted.

However he believes the criminal penalties would rarely be enforced and would instead act as a deterrent.