'Unrealistic' bus unions cause chaos for businesses - ISME

The Irish Small and Medium Enterprises Association (ISME) have criticised the unions representing Bus Eireann staff for calling a "no notice" strike, which "will severely impact small businesses and their workers".

In a statement issued this morning, ISME CEO Neil McDonnell says that "the expectation by unions that the Bus Eireann shareholder will bail out unsustainable work practices is regrettable and unrealistic".

Calling on the unions to reconsider their position, Mr McDonnell said that employees and employers affected by the strike will have to work together to miminise the disruption caused.

"Tens of thousands of commuters have been left stranded as a result of today's actions. Businesses will be without staff and retailers will lose sales."

"In the meantime people must still get to work, and rural dwellers need alternatives to those services they have lost this morning. We ask car commuters to consider car-pooling, and to lend a hand to neighbours who have lost a bus or train service.We urge commuters to use the Transport for Ireland Journey Planner to access the alternative transport sources available from small bus companies around the country."

"We ask employees who have been affected by the strike to contact their employers in good time and inform them of any disruption caused to their commute. Employees and employers will need to consider flexing work times and working arrangements where disruption occurs".