The latest earnings, hours and employment costs survey results for the final quarter of 2019 show a 'number of welcome trends' for Irish employees. Average hourly earnings were up 3.6% and average weekly earnings were up 3.5% in the year to quarter 4 2019 to €24.17 and €783.62 respectively. However, researchers at the NERI point to a need to consider these gains in context. Although real average weekly earnings growth has been strong over the past year at 2.4%, wages are still just 7.8% above the level in 2008, 11 years ago.

Elsewhere, IBEC has called for a new 'social dialogue' to ensure that public services grow proportionately with private investment and wealth. In its Quarterly Economic Outlook, the employers' body said that we need to tackle expensive housing, long commutes and stretched health and education systems as they are making Ireland a 'less attractive place to live, work and invest.'

In industrial relations news, talks between RTÉ management and the RTÉ Trade Union Group over cost savings have been adjourned for a week at the request of management. These negotiations are in relation to last year's announcement by the broadcaster that it would be seeking €60 million in cost savings over a three-year period, with a significant element of that to come from payroll.

Meanwhile in aviation, an Aer Lingus cabin crew member has launched High Court proceedings aimed at preventing the employer terminating his employment. Lorcan Delaney claims his employment was ended in recent days but does not know why Aer Lingus escalated matters from a suspension to a termination and what procedures were implemented.

The Coronavirus epidemic is verging towards pandemic status now as the department of foreign affairs has urged the Irish public not to visit 11 areas in Italy which have been hit by Covid-19. Another precautionary measure expected to be taken is the postponement of the Ireland V Italy six nations game next month.

And finally, this Zen will hopefully make you feel just that. According to the internet (so it must be true), today marks 206 years since Beethoven's 8th Symphony in F premiered. So, here's the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra under the baton of Daniel Barenboim performing it live in the Royal Albert Hall, London.