Talks aimed at reaching agreement on a new Croke Park deal resume today.

Discussions between trade unions and public sector management have so far failed to reach a compromise.

The first Croke Park agreement was signed against a backdrop of layoffs and pay cuts in the private sector.

In return for certain reforms and a promise not to engage in industrial action, the government agreed to protect jobs and pay rates in the public sector.

This time round, it is looking to shave €1bn off the state payroll and the unions have begun digging their heels in.

Some of the measures being considered are pay cuts for higher paid public servants, longer working hours and cuts in overtime and premium payments.

The Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors and the Garda Representative Association have already refused to take part in the talks.

And on Monday evening, the 27/7 Alliance - which represents up to 70,000 frontline public servants - will show their opposition at a rally in Dublin.