SETTLEMENT proposals in the South Dublin refuse collection dispute are to be presented to union and management representatives today, writes Padraig Yeates, Industry and Employment Correspondent. The proposals have been drawn up by an independent chairman, Mr Stephen Treacy, and the unions involved, SIPTU and AGEMOU, have called a meeting of refuse workers for tomorrow morning to outline the terms for a return to work.
The proposals were still being worked on last night by Mr Treacy, following three days of intensive talks. Clarification on the details can be sought by both sides at today's meeting, but neither unions nor management will be able to make substantive changes to the terms under the adjudication procedures.
Both sides said last night that very significant progress had been made in yesterday's negotiations and they were optimistic that a mutually acceptable settlement was now in sight.
The strike has lasted for almost a month and householders have had to make their own arrangements to store or dispose of refuse.
Almost 66,000 households are affected.