Unions at Bus Éireann will engage in new talks at the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) today after agreeing to call off Monday's planned strike.

The company also agreed to put their threatened cost cutting plans on hold.

The National Bus and Rail Union's (NBRU) Dermot O'Leary said they're committed to the talks, but it won't be easy to find a solution without input from the National Transport Authority and the Department of Transport.

"The Commission asked both parties to pull back from the brink and asked the company not to implement the unilateral pay cuts from next month," he said. "By extension, they asked us to suspend our strike, which we've done.

"I am, by nature, an optimist, but I have to forewarn people that the issues at the core of this are difficult."

He added that it would be ultimately remain difficult to resolve the issues due to the absence of the Department of Transport and the National Transport Authority from the talks. 

Protests

Meanwhile, public transport users in Cork are gathering in protest over the system this lunchtime.

Despite the postponement of the strike action, demonstrators are still taking to the streets to highlight the need to maintain vital bus links for people living in towns throughout Co Cork and surrounding areas.

Sinn Féin Councillor Mick Nugent said people are concerned that rural transport is facing major cuts if the Government doesn't support the country's public transport system.

"We're gathering at the main cross-way between Wilton Shopping Centre between Wilton Shopping Centre and Cork University Hospital," he said. "It's a very busy spot, so we felt it was a good place to show our support."

He invited members of the public to join the demonstration and to show their support.