The FNV trade union federation will decide on March 4 what its priorities will be in the forthcoming spring round of talks with ministers and employers.

A list with possible points for inclusion has been circulating in the media but does not have official status, a spokesman told news agency ANP.

That list includes a call for no changes to unemployment benefit – which the cabinet plans to reduce – and more job security for staff on temporary contracts.

Ministers, employers and unions are holding the talks in an effort to reach a joint position on tackling the economic problems and rising unemployment. The FNV is strongly opposed to cabinet plans to limit jobless benefit.