LRC to hold talks between ESB management and unions

Management and unions at the ESB will begin talks at the Labour Relations Commission later in an effort to avert strike action and power outages in the run-up to Christmas.

The Communications and Energy Minister, Pat Rabbitte last night requested the services of the LRC, after direct talks between the ESB and unions failed to reach agreement.

The dispute centres on a €1.6bn deficit in the pension scheme

In a statement last night ESB's Chief Executive, Pat O’Doherty, said the company owes it to its customers and the general public to ensure that the issues are resolved, without the disastrous consequences of a strike.