As the two nursing unions, the INO and the PNA, prepare to announce a further escalation of their work stoppages at noon today, sources close to the increasingly bitter dispute said there was little hope of any formal efforts at resolution for "at least another week".

The INO's Liam Doran said that even a "reasonable date" for the implementation of their demands for a 35-hour week would ease the situation. But health minister Mary Harney responded that management will have to first conduct a feasibility study as to how it can manage the 24/7 health service on reduced hours.

It is understood that management's real concern over the nurses' claim for a fourhour cut in the working week is that they won't be able to stop it spreading throughout the entire economy, costing billions. But while some 'wriggle room' is possible on a reduced working week, both sides are still completely entrenched over the claim for a 10.6% pay increase. Even Ictu's Dave Begg has admitted that the claim "overreached" Ictu policy.

Meanwhile, health-service management is pressing ahead with plans to advertise for up to 60 hospital consultant posts on new contracts.

A salary of Euro205,000 will be offered plus a 20% performance bonus.

The consultants' unions, the IMO and the IHCA, warned they will not cooperate with the appointments and while both sides are to meet tomorrow, no resolution is expected.