Backbench rebellion looms as FF discuss proposed deal with unions

Fianna Fáil backbenchers have today expressed concern about a proposed deal with unions.

Several TDs are said to be furious about the proposed deal, which would see civil servants take 12 days unpaid holidays instead of a paycut in the budget.

Many are expected to express that anger at a meeting of the parliamentary party later today.

Union leaders return to Government Buildings later in an effort to piece together an agreement, which will make up the €1.3bn in savings the Government wants.

This morning they are rejecting claims that they are delaying the inevitable when it comes to saving costs in the public sector.

General Secretary of the Irish Nurses Organisation Liam Doran denied that unions are shirking responsibility.

"Yes we are about protecting our members, but we're also about ensuring that our members work in the wider public health service - which while being leaner, while being fitter, while being more agile can still deliver a quality and safe service to those demanding it," he said.

"It's a tall order - that's what we're doing and we're not shirking our responsibilities to either our members or the wider community".

"And I mean that with all sincerity because to ignore it won't make the problem go away."