999 call-centre staff to ballot on action in toilet-breaks row

Latest: In a statement this evening, BT Ireland said is commissioning an independent contact centre expert to review the work practices at the 999 call centre, and to make recommendations.

Update 6.40pm: In a statement this evening, BT Ireland said is commissioning an independent contact centre expert to review the work practices at the 999 call centre, and to make recommendations.

The company added: "In the event of further threats by the CWU on ballots involving industrial action, we can confirm we have contingency plans in place to maintain what is a critical service for public safety."