Cowen tells unions ‘no large wage rises’

FINANCE Minister Brian Cowen warned unions not to expect unrealistic pay deals yesterday as social partnership negotiations begin in Government Buildings today.

Formal talks on a successor to Sustaining Progress began on Thursday, when all sides convened in Dublin Castle for set-piece opening speeches.

However, in advance of negotiations proper beginning this morning, Mr Cowen warned there were considerable restrictions within which a national pay deal can be hammered out.