CPSU recommends rejection of pay-and-reform deal

The CPSU is recommending rejection of the public sector pay-and-reform deal.

The executive of the union, which represents lower-paid civil servants, unanimously voted against the deal at a meeting this evening.

Members will now be balloted over the coming weeks.

Earlier, the Taoiseach Brian Cowen refused to deny a claim that public sector workers face another 8% pay cut if they reject the Croke Park Agreement.

Speaking in Tipperary, Mr Cowen refused to reject the weekend claim about further pay cuts, saying this deal is "what is now on the table".

The Health Minister Mary Harney is urging public servants to "think carefully" about the public sector pay and reform deal.

Ms Harney warned unions that there was no other alternative on offer.