Well this is a relief.

The Luas strike that threatened to cripple the city next Tuesday has been called off – but only temporarily, so that talks can take place.

It's an important breakthrough in the negotiations between workers' union SIPTU and Luas operator Transdev, however, and we're all hoping it paves the way for an end to the industrial action that's threatened to blight St Patrick's Day and the 1916 commemorations.

Both sides have now been invited to talks at the Workplace Relations Commission.

And just as well, because SIPTU organiser Owen Reidy told 98fm:

The reality is, the workers that we represent and Transdev management really don't get on, so we can't hold talks ourselves - we really need a third party to get involved.

Transport Minister Paschal Donohoe said:

I sincerely hope that this signals an intention to resolve the matter so that regular services, without interruption, can be resumed.

You and us both, Paschal.