Ireland's largest industrial union has said action on a dramatic scale will be needed to ensure all workers are treated equally during the ensuing economic crisis.

SIPTU President Jack O'Connor said a co-ordinated effort would be needed nation wide to ensure fair conditions for both public and private workers.

-- Advertisement --

He also warned the action would not simply be 'walks around town'.

During three hours of emergency talks with the union's National Executive Council, Mr O'Connor accused the state of being party to the agenda of employers to drive down wages across the economy.

He promised a relentless national campaign of action at the Irish Congress of Trade Unions executive meeting.

Delegates from the ICTU are expected to meet later this afternoon.

(PR/KMcA)