The Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) has criticised rising chief executive pay levels, saying they are increasingly out of touch with average worker pay conditions.

The Irish Congress of Trade Unions (Ictu) has reiterated its call for a hike in the 9% Vat rate for tourism and hospitality firms, saying it “is subsidising companies who continue to increase prices for customers”.

A rapidly increasing reliance on technology and the drive for a low-carbon economy could threaten thousands of jobs unless they are properly managed, two separate reports warn.

The Labour Court is set to hear from the Irish Congress of Trade Unions, Luas drivers and operator Transdev next week.

Trade unions have welcomed draft legislation from the Government that will allow them to represent members at the Labour Court even where employers refuse to recognise them for collective bargaining purposes.