Supplies of the world-famous Bushmills whiskey and the well-known Bass beer could be at risk next week as a major industrial dispute at the suppliers' west Belfast brewery escalates amid claims of "trickery" and double-dealing.

Now an all-out strike at the former Bass Ireland depot is looming as talks between current owners Inbev and the union Unite broke down amid allegations of both "trickery" and even "bullying".

Things had looked more positive though as Unite members at Inbev - including those working for the spirits distributor - Dillon Bass, which supplies Bushmills brands, cancelled a planned two-day stoppage for this Friday and Saturday in order for talks to re-commence.

However, they warned that the failure of negotiations would lead to the proposed three-day strike.

Workers now claim the drinks company is actually offering less than what was previously put on the table and have said that an all-out stoppage will begin next week.

Drivers and warehouse staff employed by Inbev at the Glen Road site have been in dispute over pay and the conditions around relocation to new premises.

In the absence of progress and claims that management were backtracking on an earlier agreement, regional industrial organiser Sean Smyth said the position was clear.

"The talks were a farce from start to finish. The management is now offering less than was originally on the table.

"We have come here today in good faith and had postponed strike action for this week.

"Our members are totally incensed by the management’s attitude. Not only have the company refused to budge on the pay deal they are now threatening to sell the jobs on to somebody else."

Accusing management of ineptitude he said the message to staff was confused and unhelpful: "Unite members are angry by this attitude and from 6am on May 12 they will stage an all-out strike."

(BMcC)