More than 700 workers at CRH companies are expected to accept a productivity package that provides them with a 27 per cent pay rise and improved pension scheme. The deal was finalised at intensive negotiations yesterday and is being recommended for acceptance by SIPTU.

The Labour Court was asked last week to intervene in the dispute in order to avert a strike that could have crippled the construction industry. The new proposals are based on its proposals. It provides for SIPTU workers in Roadstone Dublin, Roadstone Provinces and John A. Wood to receive phased pay increases of 11.5 per cent on top of the 15.5 pr cent already due under the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness.

It has also been agreed that 50 per cent of overtime will be reckonable for holiday pay purposes and that the occupational pension scheme will be significantly enhanced.