Unions are describing the proposed deal on an extension to the Croke Park Agreement as "the best of a difficult lot".

The document includes pay cuts for public sector workers earning over €65,000, a longer working week, a freeze on increments and cuts to premium payments.

It will now go back to each union for consideration.

However a final decision may not be made until April.

"It's going to lead to a reduction in income"

Shay Cody of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) says they did their best to protect lower earners.

"In many, many cases it's going to lead to a reduction in the income of public servants - so there's no point in sugaring that particular pill" he said.

"The judgement of the unions that entered into the negotiations was we believe the extent of that reduction is less than if we hadn't engaged in the negotiations".

"Certainly we hope that it will stand the test of - when it goes out to the members - that they will see that we made the best of a very difficult lot" he added.