Minister for Transport Martin Cullen is to meet union representatives this afternoon over the proposed privatisation of Aer Lingus.
The Cabinet is expected to decide tomorrow to proceed with a part-privatisation of the airline.
Mr Cullen will propose a September flotation of the company, rather than a sell-off by June as had been expected. The Government is likely to retain a 25 per cent stake.
Siptu, which represents around half of the airline's 3,600 staff, has balloted already for industrial action in the event of privatisation without agreement.
The Impact union will seek assurances at today's meeting over job security and pay. The union also wants a commitment that the Government's intention to retain a 25 per cent holding in Aer Lingus is a long-term strategy.