The public transport network could grind to a halt through strike.

Members of SIPTU and the National Bus and Railworkers Union (NBRU) are to ballot for strike action, after talks on the privatisation of bus routes broke down yesterday.

If industrial action goes ahead, it is likely to affect services at Bus Éireann, Dublin Bus and Irish Rail.

SIPTU has decided to ballot its members for industrial action next week over Government plans to sell off one in 10 routes.

The NBRU has already started a ballot of its members at both companies and Irish Rail over the matter.

It Is also considering a High Court challenge to the privatisation plan, if the National Transport Authority (NTA) do not row back on the proposals.

Owen Reidy from SIPTU says they have been left with no option.

Willie Noone of SIPTU says bus workers need assurances on what is going to happen to their pensions.