Drivers at Dublin Bus who are members of the trade union Siptu have voted overwhelmingly in favour of strike action if the company unilaterally moves to change terms and conditons of employment.

In the ballot 94 per cent of drivers backed industrial action if management implemented a a Labour Court recommendation that would permit cuts in earnings and longer working hours for some grades.

Siptu Organiser, John Murphy said: “Siptu has been given an overwhelming mandate by our members in this ballot for strike action if the company attempts to change terms and conditions.

“The workers’ representatives are still available to meet management to engage in constructive negotiations on all outstanding issues. The ball is firmly in the company’s court and we await its response.”

Siptu represents approximately 1,200 drivers in Dublin Bus.

Dublin Bus said that other unions at the company had not yet balloted on the Labour Court recommendation.

It said company was not planning to implement any changes before all ballots were complete.

Separately, Siptu said a disagreement with management over Dublin Bus drivers wearing shorts during the current hot weather had been resolved.