Gas staff still want cash to move just 3km

Cormac Murphy

THE row over Bord Gais staff demanding 'disturbance money' for moving into one of Dublin's most prestigious office developments remains unresolved, according to the company.

The workers demanded the payment to move just 3km to plush new offices at One Warrington Place in Dublin 2, where they have their own gym.

"There is still an issue there which is unresolved," a spokesman for Bord Gais said.

"The move has been fully completed and no compensation has been paid," he added.

It is believed the matter may be referred to the Labour Court.

The news comes as it was revealed the Warrington Place office block is to be offered for sale, with the energy company as the tenant.

The spokesman said the sale would not affect their tenancy. "When you have a lease it's long term. It's not affected by it (the sale) at all. The only value which a commercial property like this has is when it has tenants in place," he added.

Joint agents HT Meagher O'Reilly and Lisney are expected to quote a guide price of €28m for the block.

One Warrington Place, designed by architects Henry J Lyons, is a city landmark.

It overlooks the Grand Canal and its glass front has become a well-known sight in the city.

The demands for disturbance money came at a time when Bord Gais customers were faced with sharply rising utility bills.

It emerged recently that the company spent €150,000 on Aeron chairs designed by Herman Miller, which carry a price tag of about €650 plus VAT.

Bosses insisted they had secured a significant discount on the order.

The company has already sought suppliers to fit out the restaurant and gymnasium at its new home.

Unions at Bord Gais want a payment for the extra costs and travel time in the move.

A decade ago, staff members got between €2,000 and €8,000 each in disturbance money from the Labour Court for a move.

comurphy@herald.ie