Luas operator Transdev says it will cut drivers' pay by 10% from this Friday if their work to rule continues.

"If the work to rule continues beyond 4am on Friday 29th April 2016 and drivers do not commit to carry out the full range of duties required under their contracts of employment from that time, Transdev will reduce the driver grade's pay for the duration of the work to rule by an initial percentage of not less than 10% of the basic salary of those employees", it says

The company says the reduction reflects additional operational and payroll costs being incurred by them as a result of the disruption.

Transdev have formally written to the SIPTU union and employees, advising them of this.

It also notes that employees remain on protective notice.

But the company says it wants to re-engage with the drivers once a "credible basis for negotiations exists".

It has again appealed to SIPTU to call off strike action planned for this Thursday, April 28th, and Wednesday May 4th.

"In particular the company is asking the drivers to talk with their local union representatives and to request from them answers to a variety of questions", it adds

Gerry Madden, managing director of Transdev, said: "Once again I would like to apologise to customers for Thursday’s strike action".

"Transdev remains committed to finding a resolution to this dispute. We have done a deal with three grades and wish to do a deal with the driver grade. I ask you to speak with your local Union representatives and ask them what outcome they are hoping to achieve from this continued disruption and at what cost to you the employee and the customer. Sensible voices need to emerge", he added.