Burton hopes to prevent strikes with more negotiation

The Tánaiste said she supports boosting the industrial relations machinery of the state in a bid to prevent strikes happening.

Her comments come as the coalition looks set to seek some form of "no strike" clause in return for pay restoration in the public sector.

Talks between the Government and unions are continuing.

Joan Burton said strikes simply do not work, as issues are eventually worked out at the negotiating table in any case.

"I think it makes absolute sense to use that industrial relations structure … because at the end of the day, even if you have a strike - which is the last thing we want - you have to sit down and negotiate to end it."