Plans for a major review of industrial relations in Ireland have come before Cabinet today.

Trade unions are hoping that it could ultimately lead to a legal requirement for employers to negotiate with them.

Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise and Employment Leo Varadkar is recommending to the Cabinet the establishment of a special review group to report back within four months.

Former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern and UNITE spokesperson Brendan Ogle gave their views.