The General Secretary of IMPACT admits talks on resolving the public sector pay row will be “difficult and challenging”, but he’s positive about the outcome.

Talks between the Government and public sector unions are underway this afternoon – in a bid to avert further strike action.

The Taoiseach Brian Cowen issued the invitation last night to try and resolve the dispute over pay cuts.

Speaking on his way into talks today, General Secretary of IMPACT Peter Mc Loone said he’s was hopeful that with the involvement of the Labour Relations Commission, a solution can be found.

“It’s going to difficult, of that there’s no doubt” he said.

“But they know what we need, and we know what they need so lets see how much progress we can make”.

“You have to be confident that with the assistance of facilitation that that will enhance the prospect of an agreement” he added.