Taoiseach keeping eye on partnership talks

Taoiseach Bertie Ahern has said that he is keeping a close eye on the partnership talks between unions and employers but said there are difficult discussions ahead for both sides.

Speaking in Dublin's Moore Street this afternoon Mr Ahern was adamant that although both groups have been making attempts to set out their principles over the last two days, there are no set decisions as yet.

"I think a number of the obstacles have been clarified but maybe not agreed and that is useful in any set of discussions," said Mr Ahern.

"Like all the discussions and rounds we have had with social partnership, nothing is agreed until everything is agreed," he added.

Both IBEC and ICTU returned to Government buildings this afternoon at 2pm, however it is understood that one of the essential parts of the talks, the issue of pay, has not yet been approached.

It is thought that officials will again stay behind closed doors attempting agreements until late this evening.