Cowen says productivity is key to pay talks

Taoiseach-in-waiting Brian Cowen has said productivity will be a key aspect of the forthcoming round of pay talks between the Government, trade unions and employers.

Speaking at an ICTU conference today, Mr Cowen said the Government remains committed to the social partnership model.

However, he said any deal that emerges from pay talks which get underway tomorrow must address the issue of competitiveness to ensure jobs are not put at risk.