Taoiseach meets with representatives of ICTU
At his request, representatives of the ICTU met with the Taoiseach, Brian Cowen T.D. who was accompanied by the Minister for Finance, Brian Lenihan T.D., to review progress in the continuing discussions on a framework for a national agreement.
In the course of the meeting, the Taoiseach conveyed formally his deep disappointment that strike action in the public service is taking place next Tuesday especially as efforts to find a basis of agreement about managing the public service pay cost in this unprecedented economic crisis are continuing.
The Taoiseach referred to the potential to cause very serious disruption and inconvenience, as well as economic loss across the community.
The Taoiseach urged the unions to ensure that appropriate and responsible emergency cover arrangements are put in place.
The ICTU representatives made it clear that there is no possibility of averting next Tuesday’s strike.
20th November 2009