Unions at semi-state companies angry over move to cut wages

GOVERNMENT ministers have upped pressure on the semi-state companies, such as ESB, CIÉ and Bord Gáis, to slash wages and help lower the cost of living nationally.

However, trade unions have warned that their members will fight any attempt to unilaterally cut the wages of the 48,000 employees of the commercial semi-state companies.

Today, the Cabinet is expected to discuss the running costs of the semi-state companies in a drive to extend the effects of the public sector pay cuts.