The National Bus and Rail Union (NBRU) say planned strikes at Dublin Bus will go ahead, after talks with management ended.

Trade unions met on Monday and jointly agreed a series of 48-hour stoppages across the month of September.

These will be held on September 8th, 9th, 15th, 16th, 23rd and 24th.

A Labour Court recommendation on pay was rejected by staff over six weeks ago, for a cost of living pay increase of 2.75% per year for a three year term.

Unions have lodged a claim to the Labour Court for a 15% pay rise over a three-year period - plus 6% owed since 2008.

Drivers at Dublin Bus are seeking pay parity with drivers on the Luas.

Dermot O'Leary of the NBRU said: "The NBRU is committed to finding a resolution to this pay dispute in the interests of staff and commuters alike.

"The one common thread across all industrial relations disputes is that they are ultimately resolved, however it takes more than the commitment of one party to effect an agreement, shirking responsibility, or remaining aloof is not conducive to settling this dispute.

"The onus is now on the shareholder to unshackle the restraints on Dublin Bus and allow it the opportunity to work with its staff towards finding a solution."

The meetings, he added, were "an exercise in futility".

Meanwhile, Dublin Bus management have urged trade unions not to take part in any industrial action.

In a statement, it asked employees to "engage in discussions to explore areas of productivity that can achieve savings and ultimately fund an additional increase in pay over and above the Labour Court recommendation of 8.25%".

The company said: "Any form of industrial action will inconvenience in excess of 400,000 Dublin Bus customers each day.

"It will have a negative impact on our city, our company and has the potential to undo the financial stability that has been achieved in recent years."