Howlin Seeks Formal Approval To Start Public Pay Talks With Unions

Howlin seeks formal approval to start public pay talks with unions

Minister Brendan Howlin says the coalition has to find a 'path' to public pay restoration that does not damage the economic recovery. The Public Expenditure Minister used this morning's Cabinet meeting to seek formal approval from his colleagues to start talks with unions. Negotiations are expected to get underway in mid-May, and it is reported that the final figure for pay rises may be between 2 and 3 percent. Brendan Howlin will not be drawn on specific numbers - but he says any increases must be affordable. "I haven't tabled any figures at all - we obviously have to have a path to pay restoration that is sustainable and affordable" he said. "That doesn't un-do the really good work we've done - both on the reform side, and in having sustainable resources to pay for public services" he added.