Coughlan not ruling out another public sector pay cut

TÁNAISTE Mary Coughlan has failed to rule out another public service pay cut in the next budget as the bitter row between the Government and trade unions intensifies.

It came as Labour Relations Commission (LRC) chief executive Kieran Mulvey warned that the Government and unions could “punch themselves to death” in their row over pay and conditions if intervention does not occur.

Mr Mulvey said last night the LRC would intervene in anattempt to solve the dispute rather than allow itself become “referee” as the row escalated. He indicated both sides would need to show common sense for a solution to be found.