Irish workers protest at falling safety standards

A section of the Republic of Ireland's construction workers is taking to the streets of Dublin today (Wednesday) to protest at falling safety standards in the industry.

The one-day work stoppage by SIPTU (Services, Industrial, Professional and Technical Union) members comes in the wake of 21 fatalities on sites last year, a situation described by members as "outrageous and unacceptable".

The protest, which begins in Parnell Square, will converge on government buildings at lunchtime.

SIPTU's Eric Fleming said: "Workers have had enough of the poor health and safety standards on building sites."

He added: "The general public is aware that unions have been very unhappy with the way things have been going in the construction industry. Certainly measures haven't taken effect quickly enough to save the lives of our members."