ICTU recognises need for talks with Government

The Irish Congress of Trade Unions says it recognises the need for talks with the Taoiseach over the condition of the economy.

It follows comments from Brian Cowen at a Fianna Fáil dinner last night, where he spoke about the deteriorating public finances.

The Taoiseach said he plans to meet with the social partners to discuss ways to stabilise the economy.

ICTU president David Begg agreed that all sides need to engage on the issue - but he said it is too early to say if the new national pay deal could be affected.