Leaders of the Prison Officers' Association meet today to decide their next move in a row over pay which could lead to industrial action in prisons.
Minister for Justice Michael McDowell had given the POA until yesterday to accept a deal on overtime or to put it to a ballot of members. Otherwise he would move "immediately" to privatise the prison escort service.
A spokeswoman for the Minister said yesterday the deadline had been extended until the end of the week at the request of the prison officers. It is understood clarification on some of the issues involved was sought on the POA's behalf in recent days by the Irish Congress of Trade Unions.
The outcome of those behind-the-scenes talks will be considered today by the POA's national executive. It is expected to discuss three options: reject the current overtime offer, put it to a ballot of members or refer the issue to a special delegate conference.
There was no indication last night as to which outcome was most likely, but the association has already rejected the substantive terms on offer. The terms, recommended by the Civil Service Arbitration Board, would have seen prison officers earn a salary of between €48,000 and €70,000 in exchange for working an average of seven hours overtime each per week. They would also have received a once-off payment of €13,750.