The Irish Times view on the pay talks: it is time to find the middle ground
The Irish Times · Thu Nov ·
As unions up the ante, the risks of a long-running dispute increase
It is difficult to judge what is going on in the public sector pay talks between the Government and trade unions, beyond the obvious point that the central issue is proving difficult. From what we know, the opening offer from the Government side was on the basis of inflation forecasts for next year which look optimistic. The unions are seeking a buffer to ensure members do not fall behind if price rises accelerate. A middle route is possible, but is clearly proving difficult to find.
With some goodwill on both sides, a deal looks possible, though this will require the unions to relent on some of their demands, as well as the Government coming some of the way to meet them. This should be achievable while still safeguarding the public finances, but will also require productivity improvements in areas of the public service in return for some portion of the increase. There may be some room for manoeuvre in the area of local bargaining where additional pay is offered in return for productivity measures.
It is also important that in a final agreement the Government offers a higher level of increase to the lowest paid staff. Low paid workers in the public and private sectors are those most exposed to cost-of-living pressures. Reports suggest that no additional concessions have been offered by Government in this area to date. This needs to happen.
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