Thousands of Luas commuters face travel disruption this morning as Siptu workers down tools in a bid to seek a pay rise of up to 54%.

The move will see services grind to halt today and tomorrow, with furthers stoppages scheduled for February 18 and 19.

Transdev has said the two day strike - which continues until the early hours of Saturday - will cost the company approximately €200,000.

Siptu members are looking for a pay rise of up to 54% over the next five years.

Commuters are being urged to make alternative travel arrangements this morning.

Managing director of Transdev Gerry Madden has apologised to users.

“(We are) very disappointed that Siptu have chosen to take this action, we have been working tirelessly to try and get them to modify their claim and call of these strikes,” said Madden.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to make a heartfelt apology to all the commuters and the Luas passengers who’re seriously disrupted by this unnecessary action.”