Unions to examine Govt stance on partnership

Union leaders are due to hold discussions with government officials today to determine if there are grounds to formally re-enter negotiations on a programme for economic recovery.

Talks on the matter have been taking place for a number of weeks, but little progress has been reported.

The unions in particular have been pessimistic about the prospects for a deal due to the Government's reluctance to make spending commitments.

However, there is fresh hope that the Government may be prepared to negotiate a package on job creation, pension protection and assistance for people with mortgage arrears.

Union leaders will be seeking more detail on these issues in their talks today with Dermot McCarthy, the secretary general of the Department of the Taoiseach.

The Irish Congress of Trades Unions will then meet on Wednesday to decide if is worthwhile to continue with negotiations on a recovery agreement.