Well... sh*t.

Talks between management and unions at Bus Eireann in the Workplace Relations Commission have broken down without agreement. The news follows 16 days of negotiations between parties. The unions have now referred a number of issues to the Labour Court and the company have agreed to attend. Bus Eireann has sought an early hearing in the Labour Court due to "the urgency of the financial situation". In a statement the bus company said: "While progress was made and agreement was reached to eliminate many work practise inefficiencies, an offer made by the company that would help to deliver financial viability was rejected by the Trade Unions representing the driver grade.

"We apologise to our customers for any inconvenience caused as a result of the ongoing industrial action."

General Secretary of the National Bus and Rail Union Dermot O'Leary said that management at Bus Eireann were unable to close the deal and that staff were willing to contribute "up to €18 million in saving." The dispute between the two parties centres around a cost cutting plan which involves significant cuts to workers pay and conditions. The company say this is necessary to ensure the survival of Bus Eireann.