Both sides in restructuring talks at The Irish Times have decided to seek the assistance of the Labour Relations Commission in reaching agreement on a voluntary severance/early retirement scheme.
Talks on new work practices, staffing and non-payroll issues will continue at local level.
The company had hoped to conclude talks on a severance package this week.
While unions and management are seeking the earliest possible date for a hearing at the LRC, there could be some delay due to staffing shortages at the commission.
The LRC has secured agreement from the Department of Finance and the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment to a review of its resources to cope with an increasing workload.
Given the scale of The Irish Times restructuring and the urgent need for the company to secure savings it is expected to receive a priority listing.