HOPES of averting next Monday's strike at Dunnes Stores have risen, following day-long talks which are understood to have ranged over most of the issues in the dispute between management and unions. The talks are due to resume this afternoon.
While both sides refused to discuss details of yesterday's opening session, spokespersons for unions and management were in agreement that the negotiating atmosphere was more positive than on any previous occasions.
The management team was led by the company's director of information systems and logistics, Mr Andrew Street. This was the first time a director of Dunnes Stores negotiated directly with unions in recent years and the unions can be expected to welcome the greater authority this gives to the management team.
In a statement issued before talks began, Mandate, the main union at Dunnes Stores, said it would be presenting a detailed document to management which was described an agenda for an "industrial peace procedure".
The unions also reiterated their willingness to co-operate with the introduction of new technology in return for the three per cent pay rise due under a Labour Court recommendation since September 4th, 1995.
Before going into the talks, the Mandate general secretary, Mr Owen Nulty, said that the unions "welcome the company's decision to negotiate with a spirit of give and take and are prepared to make every effort to conclude an agreement". But he warned management that it "should not underestimate the anger and disappointment amongst staff because of their failure to honour the spirit and letter of the 1995 strike settlement terms".
For its part, the company is thought to be seeking further concessions from the unions in return for the 3 per cent increase.
Both sides will be responding to each other's proposals today.