Talks on the second phase of Sustaining Progress were left on hold tonight following the refusal earlier today of SIPTU to enter the talks.
SIPTU issued a statement earlier today referring to remarks by the Tánaiste, Mary Harney, as reported in the Irish Times.
Ms Harney was reported as saying reforms in the transport sector were central to her party's continued participation in Government.
SIPTU wants clarification that nothing has changed in the Government's transport policy in relation to workers' terms and conditions.
When talks broke up this evening, ICTU General Secretary David Begg said clarification on issues surrounding transport policy and the postal dispute would be sought before a future date for talks would be agreed.
