'Constructive' social partnership talks to continue this week
The Finance Minister Brian Lenihan has described today's talks with the social partners on the Government's plans for economic recovery as 'constructive'.
Unions and employers have also described the meeting with the Taoiseach Brian Cowen and Minister Lenihan as 'positive'.
The Government has asked the social partners to work with it to develop a broad framework which it's hoped will stimulate the economy.
Another meeting will take place before the end of this week and the consultation process between both sides will continue into the New Year.
Speaking after the meeting, David Begg from the Irish Congress of Trade Unions said while it's difficult to know how it will progress, there is a willingness on all sides to work together.
Meanwhile, SIPTU said that it wouldn't agree with any suggestion that the minimum wage should not be increased in light of the economic downturn.
General President Jack O'Connor also said there is no reason for the affordability of the pay deal to be raised at the talks.
He said both sides are committed to economic recovery.
