ICTU and Govt to discuss job protection scheme

The Irish Congress of Trade Unions is due to meet the Government today to discuss a proposed employment protection scheme.

Last week, the Taoiseach wrote to ICTU agreeing that new measures are required to support the maintenance of employment.

Brian Cowen is proposing an initiative using resources that would have otherwise have been spent on social welfare payments.

Today's talks form part of the latest attempt to negotiate a social partnership agreement on economic recovery.