More strikes feared as unions meet

It is feared more public sector strikes are on the way as unions meet today to discuss the fallout from the collapse of talks with the Government.

Negotiations on cutting €1.3bn broke down last week.

The Government said it will now forge ahead with cuts in Wednesday's Budget - and that is likely to involve a pay cut in the region of 6%.

Unions say their proposal to allow workers take time off instead of a pay cut would have netted €986m, with the balance coming from reduced over time, a recruitment ban and cuts at higher levels of employment.

The Public Service Committee of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions will meet later today to discuss their next move.