Taoiseach Enda Kenny has backed Dunnes Stores workers in their opposition to the company's alleged use of low-hour contracts.

Pickets are to be placed outside all Dunnes branches on Holy Thursday in a dispute relating to the company’s alleged refusal to negotiate on the issue.

On the eve of the strike action, Mr Kenny told the Dáil: “I hope the strike does not go ahead, but I support the workers in their right to have clarity about their working lives.’’

He said the message to employers was that the matter could be sorted out.

“These workers are loyal workers,’’ Mr Kenny added.

“They provide services every day of the week on a 24-hour basis and that should be recognised.’’

The Taoiseach was replying to Fianna Fáil leader Micheal Martin who said the strike was essentially about low-hour contracts which had become the norm in certain sections of the economy.

A major employer was exercising power over its employees, he said.

“There is no decency at the heart of the relationship between this employer and these workers,’’ he added.

Mr Martin said "it was "like going back to the 19th century'', adding the system was being used to control workers.

Sinn Féin leader Gerry Adams said his party also supporter the company's workers.