The National Bus and Rail Union confirmed in a statement on Friday afternoon that a series of strikes would take place during the month of November and into December as a dispute with management has yet to be resolved.
Five dates were given for which work on all Irish Rail services will cease for 24 hours, and it includes Tuesday, November 14.
Following a meeting this afternoon, the Trade Union Group representing all workers at Irish Rail, in pursuance of a long overdue flat pay award, have decided to serve notice on the Company for the following series of industrial actions.
Wednesday, November 1: 24 hour work stoppage, full withdrawal of labour and the placing of pickets
Tuesday, November 7: 24 hour work stoppage, full withdrawal of labour and the placing of pickets
Tuesday, November 14: 24 hour work stoppage, full withdrawal of labour and the placing of pickets
Thursday, November 23: 24 hour work stoppage, full withdrawal of labour and the placing of pickets
Friday December 8: 24 hour work stoppage, full withdrawal of labour and the placing of pickets
The Trade Union Group will conduct reviews on an ongoing basis and may decide to escalate the action by way of increased frequency and duration.
The responsibility for this dispute lies squarely with the CEO and his management team at Irish Rail.
The bad news for many planning to make it to Ireland vs Denmark - the second leg of our World Cup playoff for which tickets sold out in minutes this week - is that reaching the stadium will be far more difficult due to the work stoppage, with the DART being by far the most popular method of transport to and from the game for supporters.
Alternative plans will need to be arranged so at least there is plenty of time to sort that issue out, but this news will frustrate thousands especially considering the magnitude of the event.
