The two unions at Irish Rail have voted to accept the latest proposals aimed at settling the dispute over pay cuts.

Workers from both SIPTU and the NBRU overwhelmingly backed the measures put forward by the Labour Relations Commission (LRC).

NBRU members voted to accept the measures by a margin of 61% to 39%, while SIPTU accepted them by 71% to 29%.

SIPTU says they now expect Iarnrod Eireann and the government to live up to commitments they made in the mediation process.

While NBRU General-Secretary Dermot O'Leary said: "We have written to both the company and the NTA putting them on notice with regard to them fulfilling their obligations under the LRC proposals, this is just the beginning in terms of securing a sustainable future for our rail service and our members jobs."

The row over temporary pay reductions and cost-saving measures led to a two-day strike in August.

Irish Rail has welcomed the decision by the unions, and says it will ensure that customers will not experience further disruption.

Following the ballots, the Transport Minister Paschal Donohoe said: "I welcome the outcome of the ballot this afternoon of both SIPTU and the NBRU unions at Irish Rail. I recognise the contribution this makes to the future viability of the company as it seeks to address the financial challenges that lie ahead."

"I would also like to acknowledge in particular the work of the Labour Relations Commission in working with the parties to bring this dispute to a resolution," he added.