I understand the formula put forward by the Labour Relations Commission to get over the difficulties that led to the work stoppage on 24 November has been accepted by both management and unions and that the talks are on track again.
I would encourage all parties to make every effort to resolve their remaining difficulties and bring these restructuring negotiations to a successful conclusion. This will be in the longer term interest of everyone in the company and ultimately for the benefit of the travelling public.
The unofficial action on 24 November caused inconvenience and hardship to rail passengers and the general public. It also damaged the reputation of the railway as an effective and reliable means of transport. I would therefore strongly urge the parties to avoid any repetition of this type of action. Negotiations, however difficult, are the only way in which agreement can be reached.