The Taoiseach Brian Cowen says he’s hopeful that talks between public service
unions and the Government can lead to a deal to avoid industrial relations chaos in the country.

The discussions, which followed union threats of widespread industrial unrest over paycuts, began yesterday at the Labour Relations Commission, and are set to resume again on Monday.

Speaking in Chicago where he addressed business leaders about the Irish economy last night Brian Cowen said industrial relations stability was vital for Ireland’s economic future.

And the Taoiseach said he’s hopeful that the next two weeks of intensive negotiations between the Government and unions will resolve the difficulties with public sector workers.

Mr Cowen will march in the St Patrick’s day parade in Chicago today – along with political leaders and the Irish community.

Chicago, which is home city to US President Barack Obama, hosts one of the worlds largest St Patrick’s Day parades and will dye its river green for the occasion.