In 1987, Córas Iompair Éireann (CIE) was subdivided into three separate companies, which were to be wholly owned subsidiaries of the original entity. This move followed a period of upheaval in the transport industry in Dublin, particularly in the vehicle assembly industry, which included buses, cars and trains.

Dublin members of the National Vehicle Builders Union (NVBU) (later to be merged into the Amalgamated Transport and General Workers’ Union (ATGWU) and now part of UNITE the Union) were in the forefront of the struggle to preserve their jobs and conditions in the face of internal and external threats to their industry in the 1960s, 70s and 80s.

Dublin City Council Historian in Residence Dr. Mary Muldowney has been researching the history of what was then the 11/90 branch of the NUVB. Retired members of the union have been recalling their experiences in that time, including their success in protecting their colleagues from de-skilling and unemployment, with the aid of some unexpected allies. Extracts from these interviews will be the primary source for this presentation, hosted by the Central Library.