Employees of firms who don't recognise trade unions are being given a boost, after the Cabinet signed off on plans to legislate for them.

It follows a consultation process by the Department of Jobs with the Irish Congress of Trade Unions, Business body IBEC and the American Chamber of Commerce.

The new laws, due to come into force in the middle of next year, will ensure that Irish law is consistent with European law.

It follows a decision by the Supreme Court in 2007 that found in Ryanair's favour in a dispute with pilots - due to a loophole in the law.

Jobs Minister Richard Bruton says the new laws will help workers whose employers traditionally don't engage with unions;