Airline staff have been engaged in a long running dispute over a massive deficit in the company pension scheme.

In a statement the group of unions at the airline say they will begin discussions about a co-ordinated action and expect the process to be completed within a fortnight.

However the unions also state they remain open to talks with Aer Lingus management to resolve the dispute.

Its feared any action could result in flight disruption during the busy St. Patrick's day period.