Sir, - It was announced on December 5th that workers will be paid 1 per cent from April 2000, "in a once-off lump sum". This is, allegedly, to deal with inflation.
It was a huge blunder on the part of ICTU to accept a "once-off payment". Those for whom ICTU purports to negotiate would, if consulted, want this payment to be a proper increase.
This extraordinary decision on the part of ICTU will cost the PAYE sector dearly, unless it is rejected by the trade union members. - Yours, etc.,
Sean Lydon, Bishopstown, Cork.