Public sector pay talks will resume this afternoon after falling apart earlier in the summer.
Union negotiators say they'll engage positively in discussions, at the Workplace Relations Commissions, aimed at avoiding strike action by public sector workers, including teachers and nurses.
Earlier this summer, a 5% wage increase over two years was rejected by union representatives, who said such a small increase wouldn't meet the extra food, fuel and housing prices their members are facing as a result of the rising cost-of-living.
The government has indicated it's prepared to increase its wage offer to avoid a series of potential strikes by the likes of teachers and nurses.
However ministers are calling for 'flexibility' from unions.
Unions insist the government must put forward a better pay offer to prevent industrial action ballots to members going ahead next month.
