Talks between unions and the Government on the economic recovery programme may start as early as Friday, it has emerged.
Irish Congress of Trade Unions (Ictu) general secretary David Begg said it was “quite possible” the talks would get underway on Friday.
He was speaking following a meeting of the Ictu executive in Dublin today.
Mr Begg said the Government had not raised any proposals for pay cuts, other than to say it needed to save a total of €2 billion.
Siptu, the country’s largest union this week warned of the likelihood of strikes and civil disruption if the Government imposes cuts in public sector pay and social benefits.
In an internal letter to members, Siptu’s three most senior officials: Jack O’Connor, Brendan Hayes and Joe O’Flynn, said the problem in the public finances was “very serious”. They wanted a negotiated agreement on economic recovery involving a “social solidarity pact”, with all sectors contributing.
However, Siptu said it opposed cuts in pay across the public and private sectors. It called for problems in the public finances to be addressed over a five to seven-year time frame, with the better-off contributing through “a proper progressive tax system”.
Separately, the Irish Nurses Organisation (INO) said at the weekend it would not enter into any talks with the Government that had the potential to reduce the pay, in any form, of its members.
It said it would be seeking immediate clarification through the Irish Congress of Trade Unions (Ictu) about the agenda for the talks this week between the Government and the social partners on the economy.
INO general secretary Liam Doran said his union would not participate in any process “which seeks to comprehend discussions on reducing the pay – including increments, allowances or unsocial hours’ payments – to its members”.