On Monday, The Times reported that the Government has signaled that it will move to end the two-tier pay system in the public service as part of future negotiations with trade unions. In a statement agreed with public sector unions on Monday, the Government acknowledged that “outstanding issues of concern” will now be given full consideration in either an upcoming pay review or in the context of the new round of pay talks

Meanwhile, unions representing hundreds of thousands of State employees are set to press for a mid-term review of the current public-service agreement which could open the way to higher or accelerated pay increases for staff. Acting secretary of the public-services committee of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions and Fórsa general secretary designate Kevin Callinan, this weekend suggested a mid-term review of the existing public-service agreement could now be put in place. However, Minister for Public Expenditure Paschal Donohoe warned of deteriorating economic conditions worldwide and called for pay restraint.

The Indo reports that we are heading for a 'pension time bomb', with new figures indicating that just 47% of workers are currently contributing to an occupational or private pension. ICTU general secretary Patricia King said the Central Statistics Office figures reaffirm the case for auto-enrolment and called on the Government to ensure it meets it ambitious deadline for its introduction.

The Examiner reports that up to 17,000 hospital support workers are being balloted on strike action. The dispute centres on the implementation of a job evaluation scheme with health care assistants, chefs and other support grades voting on industrial action over the coming weeks.

The INTO, has called for special leave to be available to teachers for reproductive health matters at their annual conference in Galway. Members recounted personal stories of miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy and fertility treatment which are conditions not covered by the current pregnancy-related sick leave scheme for public sector workers.

Following on from the announcement of an increase in paid paternity leave from this November, The Times explores the link between fathers’ reluctance to take leave after having a child, and a loss of earnings.

The Indo reports on a survey conducted by the Principals and Deputy Principals' Association of the Teachers Union of Ireland (TUI), which indicates that  half of second-level schools have unfilled teaching vacancies. The survey was conducted in 120 community colleges and community and comprehensive schools in recent weeks. Overall, that represents one in six of all second-level schools.

Our zen this morning is an oldie but a goodie - the curious case of Fenton, the flight risk pooch.

Have a good day folks.