Labour Research October 2004

Features: European News

Irish unions agree pact

The Irish Congress of Trade Unions last month formally endorsed the second stage of a national pact with employers and the government.

A special conference voted by 267 in favour and 110 against the deal which provides for a 5.5% staged increase in pay over 18 months (1.5% in the first six months, 1.5% in the second and 2.5% in the third). The current rate of inflation in Ireland is 2.6% (August 2004).