Pay increases in excess of the rate of inflation will be a key demand of trade unions in the new social partnership talks.
Union recognition and social issues such as healthcare, the shortage of housing, deficiencies in public transport and the high cost of childcare are also among the issues union leaders will bring to the table. However, the president of SIPTU, Mr Des Geraghty, has warned that unions are prepared for a "free-for-all" on pay if necessary. Speedy implementation of the benchmarking report will also be demanded.