Unionised private sector workers are being advised to look for pay increases of 4 to 7 per cent for next year.
The Irish Congress of Trade Unions says the rise should be sought where it is affordable.
Workers are also being told they should look to improve the position of lower paid workers and improve other benefits.
ICTU General Secretary Owen Reidy believes it is a realistic pay demand
"Now is the time for workers to seek decent pay increases that not only are in excess of inflation now, which is modest, but allows them to catch up over the last three years. We should be seeking to improve workers living standards, not just matching inflation. and we've had a General Election where the second most important issue with the cost of living"
