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% being sought by drivers.

Transport Minister Paschal Donohoe has called for both sides in the dispute to come to an agreement at the Workplace Relations Commission:

Luas operator Transdev says it can't afford the proposed pay hikes, but SIPTU has indicated there is room for negotiation.

Owen Reidy from SIPTU says the dispute must be resolved, but everyone must be happy with the outcome:

Both sides are being formally invited to attend talks at the Workplace Relations Commission next week.

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

Transdev is offering pay rises of between 1% and 3%, with productivity concessions.

Managing Director, Gerry Madden, says there is still some gulf between the sides, but he hopes that can may bridged: