The Taoiseach has said he cannot give a commitment that rights guaranteeing collective bargaining in the workplace enshrined in the Lisbon Treaty will be extended to workers here.
Brian Cowen was responding to a call from the country's largest trade union, SIPTU, to give such a commitment before it could recommend to members to vote Yes.
The union's General President, Jack O'Connor, said it was an essential provision in a proper democratic society which applies in one form or other in virtually every other EU country.
Campaigning in Kerry this afternoon, Mr Cowen said collective bargaining for workers could only be dealt with in the context of social partnership talks but that he would do all he could to ensure the issue is dealt with satisfactorily.
As the Lisbon Treaty Referendum campaign enters the crucial final weekend, both sides are expected to step up their canvassing efforts.
RTÉ.ie/Lisbon has comprehensive coverage of the Lisbon Treaty
