National pay talks – Economic portents are optimistic

Whether or not a national pay deal is imminent remains to be seen, but if union fears about Aer Rianta can be totally allayed, the chances of a deal emerging sooner rather than later becomes more likely.

If the optimistic semaphores coming from the Government mean what they seem to mean, that could happen before this day is over, but it could prove to be a long day.

Though not a direct issue, and the subject of separate talks, it is germane to the national pay negotiations; the future of the airport management company is crucial to their outcome.