ESB calls on union to desist from further strike action Reporter: 5 May 2021 A member of the Independent Workers Union on picket duty at ESB offices, Carrick. Picture: Gerry Faughnan '); '); ESB Networks says the industrial action by network technicians who are members of the Independent Workers Union (IWU) is unnecessary. The industrial action was initially in the form of a work-to-rule since Monday, 19 April. This escalated into separate 24-hour strikes on Friday, 23 April and Thursday, 29 April. A 48-hour strike commenced yesterday, Tuesday at 8am and will continue through to Thursday at 8am. ESB Networks confirms that there has been limited impact to electricity customers as a result of the industrial action to date and contingency planning continues for the next 48 hours and beyond.