A union representing drivers at Bus Eireann and Dublin Bus is calling for the Taoiseach and Tánaiste to intervene in industrial relations at the companies.

It's the second day of striking by bus drivers, after the 48-hour industrial action began at midnight on Thursday.

More than a million commuters and tourists have been affected after bus services were cancelled over the last two days.

Earlier, Bus Eireann called on unions to return to talks. But the National Bus and Rail Union says the National Transport Authority also needs to commit to attending meaningful negotiations with unions and management.

General Secretary of the NBRU Dermot O'Leary, says it's time for political leadership in this issue:

Retailers are reminding us that two out of every five shoppers uses the bus to come into Dublin city centre over the weekend.

Shops are reportedly worried that the national bus strike could turn customers away this bank holiday.

Spokesperson for Dublin Chamber of Commerce, Graham Mc Queen says the lack of buses could make shoppers avoid the city centre this bank holiday weekend:

These people in Dublin city told our reporter how the bus strike has been affecting them:

Meanwhile, taxi drivers across the country are under increasing pressure as a result of the bus strike.

And although some companies are reporting a surge in demand, Vinnie Cairn, CEO of Expert Taxis, says many people are staying local:

Gardaí are reminding motorists that the bus lanes are not open to cars today, despite the bus strike.