Updated 11.50

The head of the Workplace Relations Commission says there is no point in holding talks on the Luas dispute, unless both sides are willing to negotiate.

The second of two 48-hour strikes is continuing in Dublin this morning, amid a row over pay increases of up to 54% over five years being sought by drivers.

Luas operator Transdev says it cannot afford to pay the proposed rates, but SIPTU has indicated there is room for negotiation.

Both sides will be formally invited to attend talks at the Workplace Relations Commission next week.

But Director General, Kieran Mulvey, says a full intervention will not go ahead unless SIPTU and Transdev are willing to roll up their sleeves:

Eoin Reidy from SIPTU says workers at the company are willing to negotiate:

"There has been a lot of talk about this 53 or 54%. The Luas, in the last five years, has generated increases in revenues of over 30%, yet the workers have had only one increase of 2.5% in that time.

While it is an openly ambitious proposal that the workers have put together, they are prepared to negotiate."

Meanwhile, the Transport Minister has called for both sides to come to an agreement.

Pascal Donohoe is hoping the stakeholders will find a resolution at the Workplace Relations Commission:

90,000 commuters use the Luas networks.

Further stoppages are scheduled for next month, including St Patrick's Day.