Agreement close as social partnership talks resume

It is hoped that the social partnership talks will be brought to a successful conclusion this weekend.

It is thought that a deal can be reached after the six-month talks process which has seen a number of all night negotiation sessions in Government Buildings over the past three weeks.

Discussions on the central issue of pay finished up last week and the other outstanding issues should be tied up by Monday morning.

This weekend the social and voluntary groups will consider proposals on housing, social welfare rates and healthcare.

The newest deal has secured a 10% pay rise over the next 27 months for the majority of workers, as well as an extra 0.5% for the lower paid.

Despite the agreement, the issues of pensions and employment rights protection have not been completely resolved, and must still be signed off on.

Unions are particularly anxious to secure a deal on employment rights protection following the scandals at Irish Ferries and GAMA.

Unions and employers have agreed on a range of measures and are said to be on the verge of completing a final package.